Education

• Ph.D., University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2019
• M.S., University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2019
• M.S., North China Electric Power University, 2016
• B.S., North China Electric Power University, 2013

Teaching Interests

Professor Zhang's teaching focuses on nuclear engineering, including the NRE fundamentals and  the new course she developed AI/ML for Nuclear Engineering. Her teaching approach integrates fundamental theories with applied problem-solving examples and critical thinking.

Research Interests

Professor Zhang's research centers on securing and optimizing industrial processes through digital twins, predictive maintenance, autonomous controls, AI/ML, and robotic applications.

Recent Publications

• Y. Do, M. Zebrowitz, J. Stahl, and F. Zhang, “iFANnpp: Nuclear power plant digital twin for robots and autonomous intelligence,” Annals of Nuclear Energy (2026), 227B, 111993
• M. Doran, M. Zebrowitz and F. Zhang, “Development of a Vulnerability Management Tool for Advanced Reactors,” Nuclear Technology (2026) 
• S. Yoo, and F. Zhang, “Cybersecurity Initial Events of Digital Instrumentation and Control Systems using Physical Accident Scenarios,” Annals of Nuclear Engineering (2026), 227A, 111926
• H. Son, Y.Do, M. Zebrowitz, and F. Zhang, "Physics-Informed Radiation Multi-Source Localization with Robotic Platform," International Journal of Intelligent Robotics and Applications, (2025)
• S. Kim, and F. Zhang, “A Robust Anomaly Detection System for Nuclear Power Plants under Varying Environmental Conditions and Malfunction Levels,” Nuclear Technology (2025)