Zhiyong “Richard” Liang, Ph.D., poses at FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in Tallahassee, Florida on July 1, 2025. Liang was elected as a fellow of the Academy of Science Engineering and Medicine of Florida (ASEMFL). (Scott Holstein/FAMU-FSU College of Engineering)
Recognition highlights groundbreaking research in advanced nanomaterials and carbon nanotube manufacturing
Zhiyong (Richard) Liang, the Sprint Eminent Scholar Chair Professor in the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and associate dean for research, has been selected for induction into the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to advanced materials research and engineering innovation. He was one of six faculty inductees from Florida State University (FSU).
Leading Advanced Materials Innovation
Liang’s recognition underscores his pivotal role in advancing carbon nanotube materials and multifunctional nanomaterials research—fields experiencing unprecedented growth with the global carbon nanotube market projected to reach $11.7 billion by 2034, according to IDTechEx market analysis. His expertise spans the critical areas of advanced composites, multifunctional nanomaterials and thin carbon nanotube materials, including synthesis, chemical functionalization and manufacturing process modeling.
As director of the FSU High-Performance Materials Institute at the joint college, Liang has established the college as a leader in next-generation materials development. His research portfolio encompasses processing-structure-property relationships and multiscale characterization techniques essential for developing sustainable, high-performance materials for aerospace, automotive and energy applications.
Academic Excellence and Innovation Impact
With more than 175 published journal articles and 40 U.S. patents, Liang’s research directly addresses the growing demand for advanced materials in emerging technologies. His work in carbon nanotube manufacturing aligns with industry benchmarks, showing that these materials are 100 times stronger than steel while being six times lighter, according to materials science research data. This positions them as critical components in next-generation composite materials and energy storage systems.
The Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida, founded in 2018, recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding research accomplishments of international significance. Selection requires nomination by current ASEMFL members and a distinguished record of contributions to science and engineering fields that benefit Florida and beyond.
These six researchers are outstanding faculty members who have made significant contributions to their fields,” said FSU Vice President for Research Stacey S. Patterson. “We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and congratulate them on being named to the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida.”
Strategic Research Leadership
Liang’s induction into the National Academy of Inventors in 2021 previously recognized his contributions to translating academic research into practical applications. His current research initiatives focus on addressing critical challenges in materials sustainability and manufacturing scalability—areas that are becoming increasingly important as industries seek environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional materials.
Recent breakthroughs in carbon nanotube recycling research, including work published in Carbon by Rice University researchers demonstrating full recyclability without property loss, highlight the strategic importance of Liang’s research focus areas in creating sustainable material solutions for industrial applications.
Institutional Recognition and Future Directions
The recognition reflects the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering’s commitment to cutting-edge research that addresses real-world challenges. Liang’s work exemplifies the institution’s mission to develop innovative solutions in advanced materials, energy systems and manufacturing technologies.
As the materials industry continues evolving toward sustainable, high-performance solutions, Liang’s research in multifunctional nanomaterials and carbon nanotube technologies positions the college to contribute significantly to next-generation engineering applications across aerospace, energy storage and composite materials sectors.
Broader Faculty Excellence
Liang joins five other FSU researchers selected for ASEMFL induction, including faculty from medicine, psychology, and chemistry. This recognition demonstrates the university’s multidisciplinary research strength and collaborative approach to addressing complex scientific challenges.
The inductees will be formally recognized at the Academy’s annual conference in November, where they will join a distinguished community of Florida-based researchers contributing to scientific advancement and technological innovation.
Editor’s Note: This article was edited with a custom prompt for Claude Sonnet 4, an AI assistant created by Anthropic. The AI optimized the article for SEO discoverability, improved clarity, structure and readability while preserving the original reporting and factual content. All information and viewpoints remain those of the author and publication. This disclosure is part of our commitment to transparency in our editorial process. Last edited: July 14, 2025.
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