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About

Zhichao Dong is a rising leader in bioinspired microfluidics and interfacial science, whose work bridges fundamental physics with innovative engineering solutions. His research centers on manipulating droplets and fluids at small scales, drawing inspiration from nature to create smart, energy-efficient systems. A key contribution is his development of "finger directed surface charges" for local droplet motion, a technique that uses electrostatic fields to guide water droplets with precision, opening new avenues for soft robotics and lab-on-a-chip devices. He has also pioneered the "liquid shuttle" concept using microwicks for open-air microfluidics, enabling low-energy transport of fluids without closed channels—a breakthrough for additive manufacturing and detachable microfluidic systems. His work on water lily-inspired notches for passive stabilization in floating devices and surface-charge-induced water waves for separating micro-oil droplets and microplastics demonstrates his commitment to addressing environmental challenges. Most recently, his bioinspired swimming robots with 3D shark denticle structures achieve controlled Marangoni propulsion, mimicking active drag reduction in nature. With over 38 citations across his most-cited papers, Dong’s research is gaining rapid recognition for its creativity and practical impact, positioning him as a key innovator in next-generation microfluidics and bioinspired design.