Ziliang is a researcher in structural and earthquake engineering, specialising in the performance and resilience of civil infrastructure under complex loading and environmental conditions. His research interests include earthquake engineering, bridge engineering, and multi-hazard probabilistic structural assessment, with emphasis on ageing and deterioration. He investigates interactive loads, structures and nonlinearities, soil-structure interaction, and seismic base isolation, aiming to improve predictive models and mitigation strategies. His work also addresses the behaviour of steel and concrete structures and components under seismic hazards, employing advanced numerical modelling tools and experimental investigations, as well as hybrid simulation. His work supports the development of safer and more sustainable infrastructure systems.

Academic Qualifications

• PhD in Civil Engineering, University of Bristol, UK (Sept. 2018 – Sept. 2022).

• MSc in Earthquake Engineering and Infrastructure, University of Bristol, UK (Sept. 2017 – Sept. 2018), with Distinction and Examiners Prize.

• BEng in Civil Engineering, Nanchang University, China (Sept. 2013 – Jun. 2017).

Latest Publications

•  Z. Zhang, G. Watson, D. Milne, W. Powrie and M. M. Kashani “Probabilistic Framework for Future Load Carrying Capacity Estimation of Corroded Metallic Railway Bridges under Heavy Axle Weight Trains”. Journal of Bridge Engineering, vol. 30, no. 11, pp. 1–21, Aug. 2025, 

• Z. Zhang, H. O. Aminulai, W. Powrie and M. M. Kashani*, “Numerical Investigation of the Impact of Nonuniform Corrosion on Dynamic Characteristics and Nonlinear Cyclic Behaviour of Circular RC Bridge Piers”. Bulletin of Earthquake Engineering, pp. 1–32, Mar. 2025. doi: 10.1007/s10518-025-02131-y. 

• Z. Zhang, R. De Risi and A. Sextos, “Multi‐hazard fragility assessment of monopile offshore wind turbines under earthquake, wind and wave loads,” Earthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics, vol. 52, no. 9, pp. 2658–2681, Jul. 2023, doi: 10.1002/eqe.3888.