Current Position:
Professor of Geophysics; Clarence R. Allen Leadership Chair; Director of the Seismological Laboratory
Institution:
California Institute of Technology
Discipline:
Physical Earth Sciences
Recognized for: Revolutionizing observational seismology through a unique utilization of fiber optic cables, enabling studies of tectonic, volcanic, glacial, and oceanic processes at unprecedented resolution.
Areas of Research Interest and Expertise:
Earthquake Physics, Next-Generation Seismic Networks, Planetary Seismology, Glaciology, Environmental Geophysics
Previous Positions:
BS, University of Science and Technology, China
MS, University of Science and Technology, China (Advisor: S. Ni)
PhD, California Institute of Technology (Advisor: D. Helmberger)
Postdoctoral Fellow, University of California, San Diego (Advisor: P. Shearer)
Assistant Professor, California Institute of Technology
Professor, California Institute of Technology
Director of the Seismological Laboratory, California Institute of Technology
Clarence R. Allen Leadership Chair of the Seismological Laboratory, California Institute of Technology
Research Summary:
Our planet’s vibrations give us a unique lens through which we can study various important terrestrial events, from volcanic eruptions to groundwater level to bulk characteristics of oceanwater. Seismologist Zhongwen Zhan, PhD, is pioneering the use of laser interferometry – measuring tiny shifts in light waves – to allow us to peer into the otherwise opaque interior of the planet’s rock, ice, and deep waters. By utilizing fiber optic cables, Zhan has constructed a “terrascope” which can look inwards, giving scientists critical information about increasing ocean temperatures, melting ice sheets, and tsunami-generating undersea earthquakes, enabling us to better understand and respond appropriately.
“Earth is a dynamic system — from earthquakes to erupting volcanoes, melting glaciers, and warming oceans. I listen to these changes with seismic waves to better understand our planet and prepare for what’s ahead.”
Key Publications:
Other Honors:
2024 Innovations in Networking Award, Corporation for Education Network Initiatives in California (CENIC)
2023 Antarctica Service Medal, National Science Foundation
2022 James B. Macelwane Medal, American Geophysical Union
2020 SN10 Scientists to Watch, Science News
2019 Faculty Early Career Development Program (CAREER) Award, National Science Foundation
2016 Keiiti Aki Young Scientist Award, American Geophysical Union
2014 Paul G. Silver Young Scholar Research Enhancement Award, Scripps Institution of Oceanography
2010 Outstanding Student Paper Award, American Geophysical Union
2009 Outstanding Student Paper Award, American Geophysical Union
In the Media: