Jianfeng (Miles) Zhang

Jianfeng (“Miles”) Zhang is a doctoral student specializing in science communication at the Missouri School of Journalism, University of Missouri. His work is broadly situated at the intersection of science communication and journalism studies, with a focus on uncertainty communication and narrative persuasion.

His research examines how science narratives shape public understanding of the scientific process and uncertainty, using experimental methods with an emphasis on public health and environmental contexts. He also studies how science journalists cover unsettled science through in-depth interviews. Together, these lines of research aim to bridge theoretical development and real-world communication practice.

In addition to his research, Zhang is developing his teaching portfolio. He teaches fundamental writing courses in journalism and strategic communication at the University of Missouri. Prior to his doctoral studies, he served as a teaching assistant at Beijing Normal University for two years, where he delivered guest lectures on topics such as social media privacy and media effects.

Before graduate school, Zhang worked as a reporter, writing for campus, local, and national media outlets in China. During his undergraduate years, he published profile stories in national media outlets and explored poetry and playwriting.

Zhang holds an M.A. in Journalism and Communication from Beijing Normal University and a B.S. in Human Geography and Urban-Rural Planning from Sichuan Agricultural University, China.

Outside of academia, he enjoys outdoor activities such as running, hiking, biking, and rock climbing.