Qitao Zhang

What is your dream job?

My dream job is to be a faculty in the geo-energy area, and I think my research experience at EME will greatly help me to pursue my academic career in the future.

What is the best class you’ve taken at Penn State and why?

The best class I have taken is ME 523 from Dr. Xuan. In this class, I learned detailed theory and programming skills for the numerical simulation based on finite volume methods, which is related to my research in the geothermal application.

Why did you decide to attend Penn State?

I decide to attend Penn State because Penn State is a well-known and reputable school. There are so many famous professors at Penn State and the campus looks absolutely amazing. BTW, I really enjoy my life at Penn State.

Research

My research is aiming to increase heat extraction efficiency in the development of enhanced geothermal systems (EGSs). My research can help to promote the commercial development of EGS and accelerate the decarbonization of human society

Method

I used the thermal-hydro-mechanic-chemical coupling for the numerical simulation of EGS development.

Advice

What is one piece of advice you would give to prospective students?

If you encounter any problem in the study or in the research, please feel free to ask your colleagues and faculties here. People in the EME are enthusiastic and helpful. They can always give me some suggestions when I have problems here.

What’s the number one reason to choose EME to pursue research?

The world-leading academia and industrial resources and the outstanding talents of the EME program will allow student to further their knowledge and polish their skills