Associate Professor Zhang Huangwei (Department of Mechanical Engineering) has received the 2026 Hiroshi Tsuji Early Career Researcher Award, which recognises excellence in fundamental or applied combustion science research.
Presented annually since 2016 and co-sponsored by The Combustion Institute and Elsevier, the award recognises an outstanding early career researcher whose work has significantly advanced the field of combustion science.
He will be formally presented with the award during the 41st International Symposium on Combustion, to be held in Kyoto, Japan from 26-31 July 2026.
Assoc Prof Zhang’s research explores new insights into how low-carbon fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia behave during combustion, with a view to advancing cleaner and safer energy technologies.
His research supports the development of future low-carbon energy systems while contributing to Singapore’s wider decarbonisation and energy security goals. It also strengthens local capabilities in hydrogen and ammonia technologies and supports collaborations with industry partners working on next-generation clean energy solutions.
Assoc Prof Zhang said he was deeply honoured by the award, adding “this recognition reflects the rapid growth of combustion and clean energy research in Singapore, where strong collaborations among universities, research institutes, and industry are advancing next-generation sustainable energy technologies with global impact.”
“This award encourages me to continue exploring new unknowns in combustion science and contribute to the development of sustainable technologies,” he said.
Assoc Prof Zhang’s research combines theoretical analysis, numerical simulations and advanced optical diagnostics to better understand combustion physics, energy system safety and fuel performance under extreme conditions. Among the key breakthroughs from his research are new approaches for the utilisation and mitigation of fuel detonations, alongside innovative ammonia combustion solutions for efficient low-emission engines.
His research also has implications for safer future battery technologies and energy infrastructure.
Beyond his research contributions, Assoc Prof Zhang currently serves as Chairperson of the Singapore Section of The Combustion Institute and is actively involved in major national and international clean energy collaborations.
The Hiroshi Tsuji Early Career Researcher Award is bestowed upon an early career researcher who has advanced a specific field of research within four to 10 years of completing a doctoral degree or equivalent. It is named after Professor Hiroshi Tsuji, whose stable porous cylinder counterflow burner configuration has influenced fundamental studies and applications in laminar and turbulent combustion.
