She joined FSU in 2007. Over the years, she has taught a variety of courses including Principle of Genetics, Population Genetics, Advanced Genetics, Principle of Biology, Biology Seminar, Scientific Communication, and Technical Writing in Forensic Science etc. Dr. Zhu’s researches focus on the mechanisms of plant resistance to parasite under the influence of abiotic stresses using wheat-Hessian fly interaction as a model system. Through her research projects, Dr. Zhu has trained eight graduate students and 14 undergraduate and high school students in research and/or publications. Dr. Zhu also served as an Assistant Chair between 2010-2014, and Interim Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences between 2014-2015. In her leadership roles, Dr. Zhu dedicated herself to the growth and development of the department, and promoted and practiced transparency and shared governance among faculty.