Meet Kaiwu Huang, new mining and minerals engineering assistant professor

Get to know Kaiwu!

Kaiwu Huang has joined the mining and minerals engineering department at Virginia Tech, bringing extensive expertise in sustainable resource recovery and processing! Dr. Huang earned both his master's degree (2015) and Ph.D. (2019) in Mining Engineering from Virginia Tech, following his undergraduate studies in Mineral Processing Engineering at China University of Mining and Technology in Beijing (2013). His research focuses on innovative approaches to mineral processing, including computer modeling of flotation processes, finding new ways to extract valuable materials from mining waste, and developing more efficient methods for recycling batteries—work that addresses some of today's most pressing environmental and resource challenges.

Why Virginia Tech? What do you love about VT?

Virginia Tech has one of the strongest mining programs in the U.S., and I’m excited to be part of this community, working alongside talented and passionate students and collaborative colleagues. The university provides an excellent environment for teaching and research, with outstanding facilities and a beautiful campus that makes it a genuine pleasure to be here.

How does it feel to be back in Blacksburg and Virginia Tech?

Being back at Virginia Tech is wonderful! I love seeing how much Blacksburg has grown and evolved. And it's been great reconnecting with old friends while also making new connections.

What is your favorite thing about being a professor/faculty member?

As a faculty member, I'm passionate about conducting research and solving problems in the mining industry. Working with students and discovering new ideas is both exciting and rewarding. I particularly value the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse range of people—students, colleagues, industry partners, and government agencies—all while developing research projects that address real-world challenges.

What is your research focus? What do you hope will come of it?

My primary research area is mineral processing, with a specific focus on separation technologies such as froth flotation, leaching, and dewatering. Through my research, I aim to help the mining industry improve sustainability, increase profitability, and reduce environmental impacts. My long-term objective is to address supply chain challenges for critical minerals, such as rare earth and battery metals, by developing innovative separation and extraction methods.

What originally got you interested in your work and/or research?

I was fascinated by minerals and rocks as a child—the shapes and colors created by nature were truly captivating. Over time, I realized that mineral processing is closely connected to our daily lives, since nearly all the raw materials we use come from minerals. Finding ways to process these resources efficiently is essential not only for industry but also critically important for protecting the environment.

What advice do you have for students looking to join the mining and minerals engineering field?

Mining is a fascinating field that's receiving increasing attention these days. There's a growing demand for mining engineers in the United States, and the field offers promising career opportunities. Mining is essential—"if it's not grown, it’s mined”—and critical minerals and materials are becoming increasingly important. My advice to students is to keep learning, stay curious, and maintain your enthusiasm for this dynamic and impactful field!