Zhenxia Zhang | Near-Earth space phyisics and radiaiton belt particle phyisics | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Physicist Particle

Research Excellence Award

Zhenxia Zhang
Affiliation National Institute of Natural Hazards, MEMC
Country China
Subject Area Near-Earth Space Physics and Radiation Belt Particle Physics
Event Global Particle Physics Excellence Awards
ORCID 0000-0001-5244-0938

Zhenxia Zhang is a researcher affiliated with the National Institute of Natural Hazards, MEMC, China. Her scholarly work focuses on Near-Earth space physics and radiation belt particle physics, including investigations of magnetosphere-ionosphere interactions, geomagnetic storms, space weather processes, and energetic particle dynamics. These research activities contribute to a broader understanding of solar-terrestrial coupling and the physical mechanisms governing the Earth’s near-space environment.[1]

Abstract

This article presents an academic overview of Zhenxia Zhang and her contributions to Near-Earth space physics and radiation belt particle physics. Her research examines magnetospheric dynamics, ionospheric responses, geomagnetic disturbances, and space weather phenomena associated with solar activity. Through observational analysis and interdisciplinary investigation, her work contributes to understanding the complex interactions between the Sun, Earth’s magnetosphere, and geospace systems.[2]

Keywords

Near-Earth Space Physics; Radiation Belt Particle Physics; Space Weather; Magnetosphere; Ionosphere; Geomagnetic Storms; Solar-Terrestrial Interactions; Energetic Particles; Magnetospheric Dynamics; Geospace Science.

Introduction

Near-Earth space physics is a multidisciplinary field that investigates interactions among solar emissions, Earth’s magnetic field, ionosphere, and upper atmosphere. Radiation belt particle physics further explores the acceleration, transport, and loss of energetic particles within the Earth’s magnetosphere. Understanding these processes is essential for predicting space weather impacts on satellites, communications systems, navigation infrastructure, and technological networks.[2]

Research Profile

The research profile reflects sustained engagement in space science investigations with emphasis on observational and analytical studies of geospace phenomena and their impacts on the Earth system.[1]

Research Contributions

  • Investigation of magnetosphere-ionosphere-ground coupling mechanisms.
  • Analysis of super solar storms and associated geophysical responses.

These contributions support the advancement of scientific understanding regarding solar-terrestrial interactions and the effects of extreme space weather events on natural and technological systems.[2]

Publications

The publication portfolio includes scholarly contributions addressing magnetospheric physics, radiation belt processes, geomagnetic storm responses, and space weather phenomena. Representative work includes investigations of the May 2024 super solar storm and associated magnetosphere-ionosphere-ground responses.[2]

Research Impact

Research in Near-Earth space physics provides essential knowledge for understanding and mitigating risks associated with severe space weather events. Studies of solar storms and radiation belt processes contribute to satellite protection strategies, navigation system reliability, communication resilience, and scientific forecasting capabilities.[2]The interdisciplinary nature of this work supports collaborations among physicists, geoscientists, engineers, and operational space-weather agencies worldwide.[3]

Award Suitability

Zhenxia Zhang’s research activities demonstrate scholarly engagement in the field of space and particle physics, particularly through investigations of radiation belt particle dynamics and solar-terrestrial interactions. Her contributions align with the objectives of the Global Particle Physics Excellence Awards, which recognize notable scientific achievements and advancements within physics-related disciplines.[2]

Conclusion

The academic work of Zhenxia Zhang contributes to ongoing research in Near-Earth space physics and radiation belt particle physics. Through studies of geomagnetic storms, magnetospheric dynamics, and space weather processes, her research supports scientific understanding of complex geospace interactions and their implications for modern technological systems.[2]

References

  1. ORCID. (n.d.). Zhenxia Zhang ORCID record.
    https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5244-0938
  2. Zhang, Z., Zhang, F., Wang, L., Li, X., Zhima, Z., Wang, Y., et al. (2025). The magnetosphere-ionosphere-ground responses to the May 2024 super solar storm. Space Weather, 23(4), e2024SW004197.DOI:
    https://doi.org/10.1029/2024SW004197
  3. Zhang, Z., Zhang, F., Wang, L., Li, X., Zhima, Z., Wang, Y., et al. (2025). The magnetosphere-ionosphere-ground responses to the May 2024 super solar storm. Space Weather, 23(4), e2024SW004197.
    https://doi.org/10.1029/2024SW004197

Mayra Dayana Lopez Carrasquilla | Planetary Sciences | Best Keynote Speaker

Published on by Physicist Particle

Ms. Mayra Dayana Lopez Carrasquilla | Planetary Sciences | Best Keynote Speaker

Scopus Profile

Educational Details

Mayra Dayana Lopez Carrasquilla is a dedicated scholar currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Geophysics at the University of Houston, where she maintains an impressive GPA of 3.79. Her dissertation focuses on the seismic and rock physics characterization of geothermal and geological storage reservoirs. She previously earned her M.Sc. in Geophysics from the Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA) in Brazil, where her thesis involved a comprehensive analysis of synthetic bulk density logs using both linear and non-linear regressions, achieving a GPA of 3.65. Before that, she completed her B.S. in Geological Engineering at the Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia (UPTC), with a thesis centered on the paleoenvironmental study of coals through organic petrography and their physicochemical properties. Throughout her academic journey, she has developed strong expertise in geophysics and geological engineering, with a focus on renewable energy and geological storage solutions.

Research Assistant:

Since August 2022, Mayra Dayana Lopez Carrasquilla has been contributing to multiple renewable energy and carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects at the University of Houston. Her work is centered on geothermal systems, CO2 injection monitoring, and seismic data processing. She has successfully applied machine learning and deep learning techniques to geophysics, enhancing the detection of fractures in rocks and improving geomechanical characterization. Through her innovative research, Mayra is helping to advance the understanding of subsurface processes, particularly in relation to renewable energy solutions and geological storage applications.

Professional Experience : 

During her internship at PGS in Houston, TX, from June to August 2023, Mayra Dayana Lopez Carrasquilla worked extensively on marine seismic data processing and 4D imaging. She utilized PGS SWIM technology to produce high-resolution results for CO2 storage investigations and Gulf of Mexico OBN data sets. By optimizing time and costs, she successfully achieved effective 4D responses with minimally processed data. Throughout the internship, Mayra enhanced her expertise in data processing, 4D imaging for oil and gas production, carbon sequestration monitoring, and seismic data analysis. This experience also strengthened her teamwork skills and deepened her knowledge of advanced marine seismic techniques.

Top Notable Publications

Carrasquilla, M.D.L., Sun, M., Long, T., Huang, L., & Zheng, Y. (2024). Seismic anisotropy of granitic rocks from a fracture stimulation well at Utah FORGE using ultrasonic measurements. Geothermics, 123, 103129.

Carrasquilla, M.D.L., Parsons, J., Long, T., Zheng, Y., & Han, D.-H. (2023). Ultrasonic measurements of elastic anisotropy of granitic rocks for enhanced geothermal reservoirs. SEG Technical Program Expanded Abstracts, 2023-August, 79–83.

Carrasquilla, M.D.L., Costa, M.D.F.B., Souza, I.J.S., Amanajás, C.E., & Nunes, L.R.A. (2022). Geological, geophysical and mathematical analysis of synthetic bulk density logs around the world – Part II – The use of non-linear regression on empirical parameters estimation. Journal of Applied Geophysics, 206, 104838.

Carrasquilla, M.D.L., Carvalho, C.P., Costa, M.D.F.B., Amanajás, C.E., & Rautino, L. (2022). Geological, geophysical and mathematical analysis of synthetic bulk density logs around the world – Part I – The use of linear regression on empirical parameters estimation. Journal of Applied Geophysics, 204, 104733.