WMG academic awarded prestigious Beilby Medal and Prize
Congratulations to Dr Han ZhangLink opens in a new window, Associate Professor (Reader) in Multifunctional Polymers and Composites at Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), University of Warwick, who has been awarded the 2026 Beilby Medal and PrizeLink opens in a new window.
One of the most distinguished awards in science, the Beilby Medal and PrizeLink opens in a new window is awarded annually to a scientist or engineer whose work has exceptional practical significance in chemical engineering, applied science, energy efficiency, or a related field.
Dr Zhang's research focuses on polymers and composites - an area he has specialised in for over a decade. His work has included:
- Developing practical technologies that make polymer and composite manufacturing and maintenance safer, more energy efficient, and more sustainable
- Creating out-of-the-oven processing routes that significantly reduce energy demand whilst maintaining structural performance
- Embedding electrical sensing capabilities within composites to enable process monitoring and structural health monitoring
- Developing composite materials that can be repaired, reused, and dismantled for recycling, extending component life while supporting a circular materials economy
- Transforming agricultural waste into composites as alternatives to single-use plastic packaging in developing countries
"I am proud to show that we do not have to choose between performance and sustainability in polymer and composite engineering", says Dr Zhang.
"By rethinking how composites are processed and developed, my work has shown that energy efficiency, structural performance, durability, repairability and circularity can be achieved simultaneously. For me, the most rewarding aspect is seeing fundamental materials science translate into practical solutions that industry can actually use."
Upon receiving the Beilby Medal and Prize, Dr Zhang said, "I feel truly honoured and humbled. When I looked at the list of previous recipients, many of whom have become leading figures and pioneers in their fields, it made the recognition even more meaningful. Their work has shaped entire research directions and left lasting marks on the history of science and engineering. To be included among such a group is extremely motivating.
"I have been incredibly fortunate to receive support from many people who have helped me get to where I am today. My family and friends have always been there for me, and many of my collaborators and colleagues have become close friends through our shared work. I am deeply grateful to my research group, whose dedication and hard work in the lab make these achievements possible.
"Being at WMG provides an exceptional environment to accelerate the journey from fundamental discoveries to real-world impact through close collaboration with industry. I am very pleased to share this recognition with everyone who has supported me throughout this journey."
Professor Kerry KirwanLink opens in a new window, Dean of WMG, offered his congratulations: "Everyone at WMG is incredibly proud of all that Han has achieved. He's a true frontrunner in his field and an inspiring example of how exceptional talent and pioneering research can drive real progress."
In the future, Dr Han Zhang aims to develop the next generation of intelligent and sustainable polymers and composites.
"I want to use my expertise to help solve practical challenges faced by industry and society. Materials engineering sits at the intersection of performance, sustainability, and responsibility. I hope to contribute not only through technical innovation, but also by supporting collaboration and inspiring younger generations to see materials science as a powerful way to address global engineering and environmental challenges."
Established in 1930, the Beilby Medal and Prize is named in honour of British industrial chemist Sir George Thomas Beilby and is awarded by the Royal Society of Chemistry, Society of Chemical Industry (SCI), and the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.
Dr Zhang will be presented with his medal at the Innovations in Polymeric Coatings Conference on 17 June at SCI HQ in London, where he will also present a lecture on his work and research.
