Traffic signals, connected vehicles, and roadside sensors are central to Ziyan Zhang’s research on making transportation systems more efficient. The UC Riverside doctoral student has received a $5,000 2026 ITS California/California Transportation Foundation Scholarship recognizing his academic accomplishments, interest in transportation technology, and potential to contribute to the field.
Zhang is a Ph.D. student in UCR’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and conducts his graduate research at the Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT). His faculty adviser, Guoyuan Wu, is a CE-CERT research faculty member and adjunct professor of electrical and computer engineering.
Zhang’s research spans connected vehicle applications, eco-driving, traffic signal optimization, and freight mobility. A common goal runs through the work: using data and transportation technology to improve traffic operations, energy efficiency, and overall transportation system performance.
Some of those ideas are being tested beyond the lab. Zhang has contributed to Caltrans-funded Freight Signal Priority research that integrates advanced roadside sensing with signal priority control. His broader research has also involved real-world deployment and evaluation in collaboration with transportation agencies and industry partners.
That ability to connect technical research with practical transportation needs is what Wu says distinguishes Zhang.
“I am so proud of Ziyan for receiving this prestigious 2026 ITS California/CTF Scholarship,” Wu said. “Ziyan particularly stands out as a PhD student for his unique ability to bridge rigorous technical research with real-world transportation solutions. His hands-on contributions to our Caltrans-funded Freight Signal Priority demonstrate the exact blend of technical maturity and practical innovation needed to advance ITS in California. This award is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work, dedication, and bright future as an ITS leader.”
Zhang was recognized Sept. 28 during the ITS California 31st Annual Conference and Exhibition in Sacramento, bringing him into a statewide community of transportation professionals working across research, government, and industry.
“This scholarship is a meaningful recognition of my research and will support me in continuing to explore practical and innovative ITS solutions for safer, more efficient, and more sustainable transportation systems,” Zhang said. “It also provides a valuable opportunity to connect with the ITS California community and learn from transportation professionals across the state.”
The scholarship will support Zhang as he continues his Ph.D. research and professional development in intelligent transportation systems. He plans to continue exploring how emerging technologies can be translated into practical transportation solutions and strengthen the connection between academic research and real-world transportation needs.
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