Cheng Zhang Ph.D.

Senior Associate Professor

Dr. Cheng Zhang joined the Department of Civil Engineering in 2012 after she received her PhD degree from the Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering at Concordia University, Canada. She was awarded the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) PGS Award for the 2006-2007 academic year. Dr. Zhang is a member of American Society for Civil Engineers (ASCE), Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE), Canadian Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), and a certified cost professional by the AACE international. She is a peer reviewer of the Journal of Computing in Civil Engineering, ASCE, the Journal of Automation in Construction, Elsevier, the Journal of Advanced Engineering Informatics, Elsevier, and etc.


  • Ph.D. , Concordia University, Canada - 2011


  • Senior Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, XJTLU - 2022 to Present
  • Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, XJTLU - 2017 to 2022
  • Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, XJTLU - 2012 to 2017
  • Post-Doctoral Fellow, Concordia Institute for Information Systems Engineering - 2010 to 2012
  • Part-time Lecturer, Urban Science Institute, Suzhou University - 2007 to 2008
  • Research Assistant, Concordia Institute for Information Systems Engineering - 2004 to 2010


  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applications in Smart Construction
  • Building Information Modelling (BIM) and City Information Modelling (CIM)
  • 3D Re-construction Technology and Semantic-enhancement of 3D Models
  • Sustainable Construction and Smart Construction Site
  • VR-based Technology for Construction Safety and Building Evacuation
  • Indoor Thermal Environment and Energy Optimization
  • Intelligent Rail Transit Transportation and Energy Efficiency


  • Huang, H., Cai, Y., Zhang, C*, Lu, Y., Hammad, A., and Fan, L. (2023). Crack Detection of Masonry Structure based on Thermal and Visible Image Fusion and Semantic Segmentation, Automation in Construction 158, 105213..
  • Gong, P., Cai, Y., Chen, B., Zhang, C., Stravoravidis, S., Sharples, S., Ban, Q., and Yu, Y. (2023). An Artificial Neural Network-based model that can predict inpatients’ personal thermal sensation in rehabilitation wards, Journal of Building Engineering, Vol 80, 108033, Dec., 2023.
  • Lo, Y., Lang, F., Lu, T., Huang, H, Kong, L., Xu, Y., and Zhang, C.* (2023). Medium-Sized Lake Water Quality Parameters Retrieval Using Multispectral UAV Image and Machine Learning Algorithms: A Case Study of the Yuandang Lake, China, Drones, 2023 7(4):244.
  • Huang H., Ye, Z., Zhang, C.*, Yue Y., Cui C., and Hammad, A. (2022). Adaptive Cloud-to-Cloud (AC2C) Comparison Method for Photogrammetric Point Cloud Error Estimation Considering Theoretical Error Space, Remote Sensing, 14 (17), 4289.
  • Guo, Y., Zhang C.* (2022). Near Real-time Timetabling for Metro System Energy Optimization Considering Passenger Flow and Random Delays, Journal of Rail Transport Planning & Management, Elsevier, Vol. 21, March 2022, 100292. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrtpm.2021.100292.
  • Gong, P., Cai, Y., Zhou, Z., Zhang, C.*, Chen, B., and Sharples, S. (2022) Investigating Spatial Impact on Indoor Personal Thermal Comfort, Journal of Building Engineering, Elsevier, Vol. 45, pp. 103536, Jan 2022, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2021.103536.
  • Huang, H., Zhang, C.*, Hammad, A. (2021). Effective Scanning Range Estimation for Using TLS in Construction Projects, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, ASCE, 147(9). https://ascelibrary.org/doi/10.1061/%28ASCE%29CO.1943-7862.0002127.
  • Cai, Y., Huang, H., Wang, K., Zhang, C.*, Fan, L., Guo, F. (2021). Selecting Optimal Combination of Data Channels for Semantic Segmentation in City Information Modelling (CIM). Remote Sensing, 2021, 13, 1367. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs13071367.
  • Guo, Y., Zhang, C.*, Wu, C., and Lu, S. (2021). Multiagent System-Based Near-Real-Time Trajectory and Microscopic Timetable Optimization for Rail Transit Network. Journal of Transportation Engineering, Part A: Systems, Vol. 147, Issue 2. February 2021, ASCE. https://doi.org/10.1061/JTEPBS.0000473.
  • Zhang, C.*, Shen, W., and Ye, Z. (2020). Technical Feasibility Analysis on Applying Ultra-wide Band Technology in Construction Progress Monitoring, International Journal of Construction Management, Oct. 2020. https://doi.org/10.1080/15623599.2020.1834928.
  • Zhang, C. *, and Ye, Z. (2020). Water Pipe Failure Prediction Using AutoML, Facilities, Emerald, Vol. 38, August 2020. https://doi.org/10.1108/F-08-2019-0084.
  • Guo, F., Jahren, C.T., Hao, J., and Zhang, C. (2020). Implementation of CIM-related technologies within transportation projects, International Journal of Construction Management, 20(5): 510-519.
  • Zhang, C.*, Shahmir, R., and Tian, L. (2018). BIM-based Investigation of Total Energy Consumption in Delivering Building Products, Advanced Engineering Informatics, Oct. 38:370-380. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aei.2018.08.009.
  • Pazhoohesh, M., and Zhang, C.* (2018). A satisfaction-range approach for achieving thermal comfort in shared offices, Journal of Building and Environment, Sep. 142:312-326. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2018.06.008.
  • Guo, F., Jahren, C.T., Hao, J., and Zhang, C. (2018). Implementation of CIM-related Technologies within Transportation Projects, International Journal of Construction Management, Sep. https://doi.org/10.1080/15623599.2018.1489712.
  • Shahmir, R., and Zhang, C. (2018). A BIM based Tool for Assessing Embodied Energy for Buildings, Journal of Energy and Buildings, July. 170:1-14. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0378778817325719.
  • Pazhoohesh, M., and Zhang, C. (2018). Investigating Occupancy-driven Air Conditioning Control based on Thermal Comfort Level, Journal of Architectural Engineering, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Jan, 2018, 24(2), https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)AE.1943-5568.0000295.


  • Wang, Y., Gao, H., Dong, Y., and Zhang, C.* (2023). Heritage BIM for sustainable development based on 3D reconstruction and semantic enhancement, the 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Building and Structure (ICSBS), Suzhou, China, August 2023.
  • Yan, X., Huang, H., and Zhang, C.* (2023). Building envelope defects detection using infrared thermography, the 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Building and Structure (ICSBS), Suzhou, China, August 2023.
  • Xu, Y., Huang, H., and Zhang, C.* (2023). Semantic enhanced 3D reconstruction in BIM based on thermal images, the 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Building and Structure (ICSBS), Suzhou, China, August 2023.
  • Lu, Y., Huang, H., and Zhang, C.* (2023). Brick wall crack identification based on RGB and thermal images, the 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Building and Structure (ICSBS), Suzhou, China, August 2023.
  • Fu, L., Lo, Y., Lu, T., and Zhang, C.* (2023). Water quality inversion of UAV multispectral data using machine learning, the 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Building and Structure (ICSBS), Suzhou, China, August 2023.
  • Huang, H., Zhang, C.*, and Fan, L. (2022). Developing a Comprehensive 3D Point Cloud Dataset for Construction Projects, Construction Research Congress, March 2022, Virginia, USA.
  • Ye, Z., Huang, H., Feng, L., and Zhang C.* (2021). An Innovative Accuracy Evaluation Method of Cloud Point Model based on Photogrammetry Surveying. In Proceedings of the 7th BIM Academic Conference. Chongqing, China, Dec. 25-26, 2021.叶泽浩,黄宏,冯雷,张澄。一种用于评估基于摄影测量的三维重建点云模型精度的新方法,中国图学会第七届全国BIM学术会议,重庆。
  • Wang, Y., Gao, Z., Cui, S., Qian, Y., and Zhang, C.* (2021). Heritage 3D Reconstruction based on Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry surveying. In Proceedings of the 7th BIM Academic Conference. Chongqing, China, Dec. 25-26, 2021.王奕扬,高子悦,崔晟彬,钱云飞,张澄。基于激光扫描和摄影测量的古建筑三维重建,中国图学会第七届全国BIM学术会议,重庆。
  • Wang, Y., Ding, B., and Zhang, C.* (2021). Alignment Study in Multi-source Data Fusion of 3D Reconstruction. In Proceedings of the 7th BIM Academic Conference. Chongqing, China, Dec. 25-26, 2021. 王一雯,丁北辰,张澄。三维重建领域多源数据融合配准的研究,中国图学会第七届全国BIM学术会议,重庆。
  • Huang, H., Ye, Z., and Zhang, C. (2021). An Innovative Approach of Evaluating the Accuracy of Point Cloud Generated by Photogrammetry-based 3D Reconstruction, In Proceedings of the 2021 ASCE International Conference on Computing in Civil Engineering, Sep 12-14, Orlando, Florida, USA.
  • Guo, Y., and Zhang, C. (2021). Real-time Railway Transit Management Based on Multi-Agent System (MAS). Journal of Physics: Conference Series. Feb. 2021, Vol. 1828, Issue 1, pp. 012045. 2020 International Symposium on Automation, Information and Computing (ISAIC 2020). Dec., 2020, Beijing, China.
  • Li, Y., Sun, Q., Zhang, C., Lim, E., Liang, H., and Yue, Y. (2020). Digital Campus with Virtual Reality: from Immersive Visualization to Interactive Experience (Outstanding Paper Prize). In CCSAT 2020. Beijing, China, 17-19 September 2020.
  • Xing, W., Guo, F., Jahren, C., Zhang, C., and Hao, J. (2020), Case Studies of Using BIM for Infrastructure in Utility Tunnel Projects in Jiangsu, China, In Proceedings of the ASCE Construction Research Congress (CRC) 2020, Tempe, Arizona, US. March 8-10, 2020. 482-490.
  • Huang, H., Lo, Y., Zhu, J., Ge, S., and Zhang, C. (2020). Semantic Enhanced As-built BIM Updating based on vSLAM and Image Processing, In Proceedings of the ASCE Construction Research Congress (CRC) 2020, Tempe, Arizona, US. March 8-10, 2020.
  • Huang, H., Zhu, J., and Zhang, C. (2019). Analysis of Applying Wireless Location System in Construction, In Proceedings of the 5th BIM Academic Conference. Changsha, China, Nov. 16-17, 2019. 黄宏,朱荆玲,张澄,无线定位系统在建筑施工邻域的应用分析,第五届全国BIM学术会议,湖南长沙。
  • Zhang, C., Ye, Z., Wu, Y., Weng, N., and Wang, Q. (2019). Prediction of Water Pipe Leakage Risks by using TPOT, In Proceedings of the International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) World Building Congress – Constructing Smart Cities, Hong Kong, China, June 17-21, 2019.
  • Zhang, C., and Huang, H. (2019). As-built BIM Updating based on Image Processing and Artificial Intelligence. In Proceedings of the 2019 ASCE International Conference on Computing in Civil Engineering, Atlanta, Georgia, USA, June 17-19, 2019.
  • Guo, Y., Zhang, C., and Lu, S. (2019). Enhancing Sustainability of Rail Transit System by Applying Multi-agent System. In Proceedings of the 2019 ASCE International Conference on Computing in Civil Engineering, Atlanta, Georgia, USA, June 17-19, 2019.
  • Zhang, C., Guo, F., Fan, L., and Ali, Y. (2019) Big Visual Data Analysis for Built Environment Information Modelling. In Proceeding s of the CSCE Annual Conference, Laval, Quebec, Canada, June 12-15, 2019.
  • Luo, Y., Zhang, C., and Hammad, A. (2019). Recent Development of Multi-purpose Utility Tunnels in China, In Proceedings of the CSCE Annual Conference, Laval, Quebec, Canada, June 12-15, 2019.
  • Nizam, R., and Zhang, C. (2018). BIM Extension to Incorporate Embodied Energy Information, In Proceedings of the 18th International Conference on Construction Applications of Virtual Reality (CONVR), Auckland, New Zealand, November, 2018.
  • Zhang, C., and Huang H. (2018). Dynamic As-Built BIM Updating During Construction using Thermal Images, In Proceedings of the 18th International Conference on Construction Applications of Virtual Reality (CONVR), Auckland, New Zealand, November, 2018.
  • Zhang, C. and Huang H. (2018). Thermal Image based 3D Reconstruction Technology for Real-time BIM Updating, In Proceedings of the 4th BIM Academic Conference, Hefei, China, November, 2018. 张澄,黄宏,基于热成像照片的三维重建技术在BIM模型实时更新中的应用,第四届全国BIM学术会议,安徽合肥。
  • Zhang, C. and Chen B. (2018). VR-based Teaching and Learning Tool for Building Design and Construction, In Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Civil Engineering Education, EUCEET, Spain, September, 2018.
  • Guo, Y., Gong G., Chin, C., and Zhang C. (2018). Structural Design of Concrete to EC2 and GB50010-2010: A Comparison, In Proceedings of MATEC Web of Conferences 175, 01039.
  • Zhang, C., Xu, H., Liu, Z, and Cui, J. (2018). BIM-based Safe Path Finding for Building Evacuation, In Proceedings of the 2018 Architecture and Civil Engineering Conference, Singapore, May 14-15, 2018.


  • Mao, X., Guo, S., and Zhang, C. (2021). Smart Construction Technology and Professional Talent Cultivation. ISBN: 978-7-89475-572-8. 毛小勇,郭淑婷,张澄. 智慧建造技术与专业人才培养,中国建筑工业出版社。出版日期2021年12月。(In Chinese)
  • Kim, J.S., Xu, Y., Zhong, S., Chung, H., Li, B., and Zhang, C. (2018). Food and City: Green and Smart City Regeneration Path – Taking SIP as an Example. (In Chinese)


  • Hammad, A., Pang, H., and Zhang, C. (2010). Construction Simulation Using Cell-DEVS Modeling, Chapter 12 of Discrete-Event Modeling and Simulation: Theory and Applications, Wainer, G. and Mosterman, P. (editors), Taylor and Francis.
  • Nizam, R., and Zhang, C., (2017). A Review of Industry Foundation Classed (IFC) Based Data Exchange Model, Chapter 6 of Integrated Building Information Modelling. Bentham Science Publishers.


  • 2023 Suzhou Water Bureau Science and Technology Project. “Data Analysis of Intelligent Water Inspection using Multi-sensor Drones” (2 yrs) 2023007, 2023/12-2025/11. (苏州市水利水务科技项目:基于多传感器无人机的水务智能巡检数据分析)
  • 2020 Jiangsu Science and Technology Programmes, “Improving the precision and intelligence of 3D reconstruction for construction information modelling”. (3 yrs). SBK2020020937, 2020/07-2023/06. (江苏省自然科学研究面上项目: 工程信息模型三维重建精确化智能化提升)
  • 2018 Key Program Special Fund in XJTLU, “A Roadmap to Built Environment Informatics and Resource Optimization based on Big Visual Data Analysis” (3 yrs). KSF-E-04, 2018/07-2021/06. (西交利物浦大学重点项目建设专项资金: 基于视觉大数据分析的建成环境信息学与资源优化路线图)
  • 2017 Jiangsu University Natural Science Research Programme, "Information Modelling and Real-time Monitoring System for Smart Construction" (2 yrs). 17KJB560011, 2017/09-2019/08. (江苏省高校自然科学研究项目: 智慧工地信息模型快速建模和实时监控决策系统)


  • CEN421 Construction Process Simulation 2020-Present
  • CEN322 Building Information Modelling 2018-Present
  • CEN108/114 Surveying/Surveying for Architectural Engineers 2012-2020
  • CEN311 Final Year Project 2012-Present
  • CEN310 Traffic and Highway Design 2012-2017
  • CEN101 Design for Engineers 2012-2017
  • CEN304 Capstone Design II 2012-2017


  • 2017-Present: Member of the China Graphics Society (CGS) 中国图学学会
  • 2013-Present: Associate Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
  • 2010-Present: Member of the Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACE International)
  • 2008-Present: Member of the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE)
  • 2008-Present: Member of the Canadian Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE)
  • 2002-Present: Registered Cost Estimating Engineer, Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of the People’s Republic of China (MOHURD)


  • AI technology Application Award: Applying Scenario Demonstration Project. (Crack Detection of Masonry Structure based on Thermal and Visible Image Fusion and Semantic Segmentation). 2023 Artificial Intelligence Technology Achievement Award, Jiangsu Association of Artificial Intelligence (JSAI). 江苏省人工智能学会科技成果奖。技术应用奖(应用场景示范): 基于热成像和可见光图像融合以及语义分割的砖石结构裂缝识别.
  • 2023, XJTLU Honoured Staff. December, 2023.
  • 2023, Research Excellence Award, Academic Excellence Award, 2022/23 Academic Year, Design School. April, 2023.
  • 2019, Highly Recommended for the Most Innovative Teaching Practice of the 2018/19 Annual XJTLU Learning and Teaching Awards
  • 2018, Second Prize of the First Sino-Foreign Cooperation in Running Schools Exhibition, ILEAD, XJTLU. CDIO in Civil Engineering Education.
  • 2011 , Pre-approved candidate for Industrial R&D Fellowships (IRDF) of NSERC, Canada
  • 2010 , Doctoral Thesis Completion Award ($4,000 for fall semester of 2010) at Concordia University, Canada
  • 2009 , Bourse d'etues Hydro-Quebec de l'Universite Concordia Award for the 2009-2010 academic year ($16,000 per year for two years), Canada
  • 2006 , NSERC PGS D Award for the 2006-2007 academic year ($21,000 per year for three years), Canada
  • 2006 , Concordia University External Grant Holder Doctoral Scholarship ($1,200 per year for three years), Canada
Cheng Zhang