In an innovative leap for radiation detection technology, Zhong He, a professor of nuclear engineering, has designed a groundbreaking semiconductor gamma-ray detector. Lacking a suitable radiation detector, He created a sensor with unmatched energy accuracy and imaging capability. This advanced detector was sent to the International Space Station in 2025. For his pioneering work, He is honored as this year’s Distinguished University Innovator of the Year.
The award, established in 2007, acknowledges U-M faculty who transform ideas into impactful technologies. It is supported by endowments from the Office of the Vice President for Research and the Stephen and Rosamund Forrest Family Foundation. Kelly Sexton, associate vice president for research, praised He’s innovative spirit: “What Professor He has done is exemplify what it means to be a researcher and innovator.”
When He needed a more effective radiation detector, he created one, leading to commercial success. This achievement was recognized by a faculty selection committee, which chose him for the award. He will receive the honor on Sept. 24 at the Celebrate Invention event.
Innovative Idea Leads to Economic Impact
He’s detector was more accurate and user-friendly than existing gamma-ray sensors. It allowed real-time visualization of gamma-ray sources, prompting him to patent the technology through Innovation Partnerships. This partnership led to the 2011 launch of H3D, alongside former students Feng Zhang, Weiyi Wang, and Willy Kaye. Based in Ann Arbor, H3D has significantly contributed to Michigan’s economy.
H3D employs several U-M graduates, with 23 of its 40 employees being alumni. The company generates over $90 million in revenue. “Our product is now used in 75% of nuclear power plants across the country,” He stated. The detectors are also used worldwide and were recently sent to the International Space Station.
H3D’s technology has diverse applications, including emergency response, defense, and medical imaging. He’s influence extends into healthcare with two Ann Arbor startups, M3D and MH3D, which provide gamma cameras and imaging scanners for medical professionals. “H3D is the poster child for everything Innovation Partnerships values,” said Richard Greeley, associate director of licensing, engineering.
U-M and He maintain a financial interest in H3D, M3D, and MH3D.
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