With Great Sorrow, We Announce the Passing of Professor Zhou Heng

It is with profound sadness that Tianjin University announces the passing of Professor Zhou Heng, a distinguished expert in fluid mechanics, esteemed educator, and academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Professor Zhou, who served as Honorary Dean of the School of Mechanical Engineering, passed away in Tianjin at 8:54 a.m. on August 1, 2025, after battling illness. He was 96 years old.

Professor Zhou Heng dedicated his life to advancing science and education, leaving an indelible mark on Tianjin University and the global academic community. Born in Shanghai on November 20, 1929, Zhou Heng began his journey at Peiyang University (now Tianjin University) in 1946, where he graduated and later became a lifelong member of the faculty. Over seven decades, he shaped the field of fluid mechanics in China and inspired countless students and colleagues with his passion, humility, and unwavering commitment to excellence. He was elected as an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 1993.

Throughout his career, Professor Zhou held numerous leadership roles at Tianjin University and beyond. From 1983 to 1993, he served as Chair of the Department of Mechanics, during which he played a pivotal role in modernizing the curriculum and fostering interdisciplinary research. As the deputy Dean of the Graduate School from 1984 to 1986 and the Dean of the Graduate School in 1986, he championed innovation in graduate education, nurturing a culture of critical thinking and academic excellence. His leadership extended nationally, where he chaired the Mechanics Review Panel of the National Natural Science Foundation of China and served as Vice Chair of the Engineering Mechanics Teaching Advisory Committee for the Ministry of Education.

Renowned for his groundbreaking work in turbulence theory and fluid flow stability, Zhou Heng challenged conventional ideas and advanced our understanding of fundamental mechanics. His research not only addressed theoretical challenges but also solved practical engineering problems, such as boundary layer transitions in hypersonic flight. His contributions continue to influence the fields of aerodynamics and applied mathematics worldwide.

Beyond his scientific achievements, Professor Zhou was deeply admired as a mentor and educator. Even in his later years, he remained devoted to teaching and guiding students, often sharing his wisdom with warmth and patience. Those who had the privilege of learning from him remember his encouragement to think critically and explore boldly.

Zhou Heng’s influence also reached the international community. As Vice Chair of the Asian Fluid Mechanics Committee and Vice President of the Chinese Society of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, he played a central role in fostering international collaboration and advancing the field of mechanics globally.

Zhou Heng's passing is a tremendous loss for Tianjin University and the global scientific community. His lifelong dedication to education, research, and the pursuit of knowledge will continue to inspire generations to come.

A separate article will be published to honor Professor Zhou Heng’s extraordinary life and the profound impact he left on those around him.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable life.

By Eva Yin