New Mexico State University Civil Engineering Assistant Professor Qianyun (Gloria) Zhang has been honored with the 2025 New Mexico Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research Mentor Award for her exceptional dedication to student mentorship and inclusive research training.
Zhang was recognized for her empowering approach to guiding students and creating opportunities that match their individual goals.
“This award renews my commitment to expanding research experiences, improving access to mentoring for students from all backgrounds and strengthening partnerships that connect learning to real-world impact,” Zhang said.
She adapts her guidance to each student’s aspirations, helping them overcome academic hurdles, explore career options and pursue original research. Through her Z-Lab research group, Zhang has built a student-centered environment where she fosters curiosity and connection. Her approach blends technical rigor with resilience, creativity and growth.
“Mentoring has always been the most meaningful part of my role, including helping students shape research questions, build technical and professional skills and chart pathways toward fulfilling careers,” Zhang said. “I’m proud of what our students accomplish. They ask bold questions, support one another and turn setbacks into momentum.”
The EPSCoR Mentor Award is based on student nominations and highlights qualities such as accessibility, empathy and adaptability in mentoring. Under her mentorship, students have published in leading journals, earned notable awards and secured provisional patents.
Along with Zhang, Eduardo Ceh-Varela of Eastern New Mexico University and Jingjing Wang of the University of New Mexico were honored this year.