Motivated by an innate sense of curiosity, Dr. Norman Zhou has made significant contributions in many areas of engineering over the past 24 years.
While he began his career as a Waterloo Engineering professor focused on advanced welding and joining technologies, his inquisitive nature also led to advancements in fields including nanomaterials fabrication and laser processing of shape memory alloys.
![Norman Zhou is a professor at Waterloo Engineering.](/engineering/sites/default/files/uploads/images/norman_zhou_1_2.jpg)
Dr. Norman Zhou is a professor at Waterloo Engineering.
“I’m constantly wondering ‘why’ and ‘what if’ when it comes to many things in life and my research,” said Zhou, a mechanical and mechatronics engineering professor who is cross-appointed to electrical and computer engineering.
Zhou’s search for answers also led to national recognition today with the announcement that he is the winner of a prestigious Synergy Award for Innovation from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), a prize that comes with a $200,000 research grant.
One of four winners across the country, he was cited in a category for productive collaborations between academics and two or more Canadian industrial partners. Three collaborators - Huys Industries, ArcelorMittal Dofasco and the International Zinc Association - share the award with Zhou and will each receive $30,000 vouchers to go towards future research partnerships.
Go to Wondering 'why' and 'what if' for the full story.