Professor Xiwang Zhang
Professor Xiwang Zhang FTSE Chair Professor and Centre Director

Professor Xiwang Zhang is internationally recognised for his innovative work on membrane science and technology, tackling complex challenges in the crucial nexus of water, environment and climate change. 

As a visionary interdisciplinary leader, Professor Xhang established the ARC Industry Transformation Hub for Energy-Efficient Separation (EESep) that translated membrane science and technology into practical solutions across a range of fields, including clean water production, wastewater recycling, biotechnology, mining and more. 

Professor Zhang also leads the ARC Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide (GETCO2), a national initiative focused on converting CO2 to valuable products. His leadership is driving technology innovation for decarbonisation, playing a pivotal role in the global fight against climate change.


Fellow status Elected 2024 Division QLD
Fellowship Affiliations The University of Queensland (UQ) Classification Academia Sector B - Water & Environment Expertise 154 - Environmental science and technology (physical), 351 - Chemical engineering, 363 - Materials science and engineering, 411 - Research and development

Professor Zhang is internationally renowned for his innovative work on membrane technology, focusing on sustainability, tackling complex challenges in the crucial nexus of water, environment, and climate change. His groundbreaking energy efficient technologies for clean water production and wastewater utilisation provide solutions for significant global water challenges. Having established the EESep Research Hub, he plays a pivotal role in minimising energy use in industrial processes, resulting in multimillion-dollar benefits across key Australian industries. Zhang leads the ARC Centre of Excellence GETCO2, a national initiative converting CO2 to valuable products, driving technology transformation to meet the net-zero emissions goal.