Jinhua Zhao

Jinhua Zhao is a distinguished Professor of Cities and Transportation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where they have made significant contributions to the field of transportation research. With a keen interest in the intersection of behavioral science and transportation technology, Zhao's work focuses on developing innovative computational methods to sense, predict, nudge, and regulate travel behavior. Their research aims to design and implement multimodal mobility systems that seamlessly integrate automated and shared mobility with public transport. At MIT, Zhao has been instrumental in founding the MIT Mobility Initiative, a platform that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in urban mobility. They lead the JTL Urban Mobility Lab and the Transit Lab, both of which are at the forefront of transportation research and development. Zhao's leadership extends to the MIT Mobility Forum, where they serve as the faculty director, and they also hold the position of Interdepartmental Transportation Program Director, overseeing a range of transportation-related academic initiatives. In addition to their academic roles, Zhao is the co-founder and chief scientist of TRAM.Global, a venture dedicated to mobility decarbonization. This initiative reflects Zhao's commitment to addressing the pressing environmental challenges posed by transportation systems worldwide. Their work with TRAM.Global has facilitated collaborations with transportation authorities and operators across the globe, driving forward the agenda of sustainable and efficient mobility solutions. Zhao's research interests are diverse and encompass various aspects of transportation, including shared mobility, public transport, and automated mobility. They are particularly focused on understanding and influencing travel behavior to promote more sustainable and efficient transportation systems. Through their work, Zhao aims to contribute to the development of transportation technologies that are not only innovative but also environmentally responsible. Throughout their career, Zhao has been recognized for their contributions to the field of transportation, earning accolades for their pioneering research and leadership. Their work continues to inspire and shape the future of urban mobility, making a lasting impact on how cities and transportation systems evolve in response to changing societal needs. Zhao's dedication to advancing transportation technology and behavioral science has positioned them as a leading figure in the field. Their efforts to integrate cutting-edge research with practical applications have paved the way for new approaches to mobility that prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and accessibility.