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Professor John Zhai and Senior Instructor Matthew Morris were recently awarded the Faculty Research Award and Max S. Peters Faculty Service Award, respectively, by the College of Engineering and Applied Science. 

Zhai was recognized for his innovative research in sustainable building development and building indoor-outdoor environment quality. He and his team study mechanisms of micron particles, like bacteria and viruses, interacting among themselves as well as with objects like the human body and other surfaces. They also work on urban-scale green building development, including energy demand and supply prediction, and application of the inverse modeling method for atmospheric pollutant prediction.

“This CEAS Faculty Research Award values the continuous efforts of all my team members to explore fundamental while important physics in engineering, and further encourages creativity and innovation in addressing engineering challenges,” Zhai said. 

Morris was honored for his work serving students in civil, environmental and architectural engineering. He serves as the director of the CEAE Enrichment Program, which provides students with internships and opportunities for studying abroad, participating in research and learning through service. He also mentors students groups such as the Associated General Contractors and the American Society of Civil Engineers regional competition in Boulder. Morris consistently participates in 10-11 service assignments per academic year. 

“I’m very honored to receive this award. There are so many outstanding people in the college who are going above and beyond to serve their departments, the college, the university and beyond,” Morris said. “It’s very fulfilling to work alongside such impressive people who are making a big impact in our community.”