Jin Wenzhu was born in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province. He studied in the Civil Engineering Department of Peiyang University during 1912 to 1915. He served successively as professor, Secretary-general and Dean of College of Science of Fudan University. After liberation, he held the posts of member of Administration Council of Fudan University, Dean of Science and Technology College in Fudan University, Director of Qingdao Institute of Technology, member of Qingdao Municipal People’s Council, member of Hubei Provincial People’s Council and the standing member of China Association for Promoting Democracy. He joined the CPC in May, 1958 with honor.
He was the Acting President of Peiyang University from 1946 to1947.