Zizhang holds an MEng degree in Chemical Engineering at University College London, and an MSc in Environmental Systems Engineering at the same institution, with the thesis titled 'Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of IOM Biodegradable Plastic Bags' in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration. 

In his PhD project, Zizhang works with various industry partners in the Netherlands on assessing the sustainability of innovative routes for the bulk production of biomass-derived aromatic chemicals and products. By utilising ex-ante life cycle assessment as the main tool, Zizhang’s work aims to reduce industry reliance on fossil-based feedstocks by improving sustainability and circularity of the bio-aromatics value chain.