Penghui has received the Samueli School of Engineering’s Annual Award for Research Excellence in the Mid-Career category. This prestigious award honors faculty who have conducted exceptional fundamental or applied research or made a unique contribution to engineering concepts with societal impact.
Cao leads a cutting-edge research program focused on computational modeling of complex alloys under extreme conditions. His work significantly advances the understanding of deformation mechanisms in high-entropy alloys and gradient density materials. With over 70 peer-reviewed journal publications, including three recent papers in Nature Communications, Cao’s research has gained wide recognition. His 2022 paper on dislocation patterning, featured on the cover of Science Advances, is considered a landmark contribution to the field.
In addition to his academic output, Cao has secured over $5 million in research funding in recent years, an extraordinary achievement for a theoretical and computational research group. He plays key leadership roles in the NSF’s Center for Complex and Active Materials and the DOE’s Center for Additively Manufactured Complex Systems under Extremes. Cao is also recognized for his commitment to inclusive excellence through service and leadership that broaden participation in engineering. His achievements in research, leadership, and community engagement make him a deserving recipient of this award. Learn more