Feng receives 2025 Excellence in Research Mentoring Award
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Media Contact: Desa James | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-2669 | desa.james@okstate.edu
The ripple effect that mentorship has is a marvel in and of itself — the compounding impact benefiting more than just the mentor and mentee.
The College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University has announced that Dr. Yu Feng, associate professor for the School of Chemical Engineering, has received the 2025 Excellence in Research Mentoring Award. This award honors faculty mentors for their exceptional success and impact in supervising undergraduate research students.
The students who nominated Feng praised his dedication and individualized mentoring strategies.
“Dr. Feng’s impact extends far beyond research,” said Ceyda Kara, a chemical engineering student. “He genuinely cares about his students’ success, encouraging them to take on challenges they might not think they’re ready for. His ability to inspire confidence and push students to realize their potential is what makes him an exceptional mentor.”
Ethan O’Connor, an industrial engineering and management student, noted that Feng had been a tremendous resource to him throughout his time as an undergraduate research assistant.
“Dr. Feng has demonstrated his passion for furthering and sharing his knowledge. Whether I need technical advice, writing revisions, or general guidance, I know Dr. Feng is someone I can turn to," O'Connor said.
The competitive award is a powerful recognition of Feng’s commitment to mentoring students during the meaningful research of their early academic journeys.
"I view this award not just as a personal honor, but as a shared success with the
students who trusted me to guide them."
"It was such a meaningful and humble surprise to learn that one of my undergraduate research mentees nominated me for this award," Feng said. "I’m deeply honored that two of my current undergraduate students also submitted strong letters of support on my behalf.”
Feng's mentoring philosophy emphasizes the importance of undergraduate research as a gateway to discovery, critical thinking and real-world impact.
"Mentoring undergraduate students is more than an academic responsibility. It is my personal mission," he said. "Through tailored guidance and immersive research experiences, I aim to help students develop technical skills, scientific rigor and lifelong curiosity."
Several of Feng’s students have gone on to pursue graduate degrees, secure prestigious fellowships, or make an impact through industry projects.
In his sophomore year, Feng began researching. This early access answered a powerful question that he had as a young engineering student. “How can we use the theories we learn to solve real problems that help people?”
He credits the mentorship of outstanding professors during his undergraduate years at Zheijiang University for his ability to dream big and pursue ambitious goals in research that could help others.
“Dr. Lihua Chen, Dr. Fubing Bao, and Dr. Jianzhong Lin each played a pivotal role in shaping how I approach research,” Feng said. “They taught me what it truly means to commit to rigorous scientific inquiry, i.e., how to be critical, how to collaborate effectively, and how to translate research into meaningful outcomes. Even when research became unpredictable or imperfect, it nurtured my idealism and passion.
“I strive to create that same clarity and inspiration for my students.”
Feng's advice to his students is simple yet profound.
"Find your passion and stick to it. Your enthusiasm is your greatest asset. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be critical in your thinking," Feng said.
Feng has mentored students on various impactful projects, including Digital Twin Systems for Human Respiratory Health and Chemical Engineering Education. These projects not only equip students with technical skills but also allow them to contribute to meaningful research with real-world applications.
Feng expressed his gratitude to the OSU Vice President for Research’s office for the recognition.
"Thank you for recognizing the value of research mentorship and for allowing our students' voices and successes to be part of this story," he said.
Learn more about Dr. Yu Feng’s research here.