A UWindsor researcher who is a world-renowned expert in the Internet of Vehicles has been named to the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists.

Ning Zhang, a professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, is one of 56 new RSC college members from across the country announced Tuesday by the Royal Society of Canada. He was selected for his contributions to the field of performance analysis and optimization of connected vehicles and cognitive wireless networks.

“I am honoured to be among this year’s list of inductees,” Dr. Zhang said. “I’m grateful to the Royal Society of Canada for selecting me and I am looking forward to the opportunity to meet and collaborate with the other members of the college.”

The College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists is comprised of mid-career researchers who have demonstrated a high level of achievement. Membership is for seven years. Fellows and college members are called upon by governments and agencies to provide advice, and they promote a culture of knowledge and innovation in Canada with other national academies around the world.

“Royal Society recognition as an emerging scholar is a prestigious accomplishment,” said Shanthi Johnson, UWindsor vice-president, research and innovation. “Dr. Zhang is most deserving of this honour.

“His work is an example of UWindsor’s commitment to pursuing bold, impactful research, and we look forward to watching his research achievements grow.”

Zhang holds a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in the Internet of Vehicles. His work has been cited more than 19,000 times in the global research community. His accomplishments include being an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Distinguished Lecturer, being named a Highly-Cited Researcher, and winning numerous best-paper awards.

The society describes the College as bringing “multigenerational capacity” to address societal challenges and seize new opportunities, including those in emerging fields.

“The Royal Society of Canada is very proud to welcome today an imposing group of inspiring scholars, artists and creators whose peers have recognized their exceptional contributions to the world of science and culture and to the well-being of Canada,” said RSC president Alain-G. Gagnon. “The impact of their work will continue to be felt in the development of public policies for years to come, while contributing to the well-being of our society.”

The society will induct its 2024 Fellows and College members at a ceremony Nov. 8 in Vancouver.