After earning her PhD, Professor Yvonne Gao established her research group at the Centre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore in 2020. Building from empty lab space, she rapidly developed the technical infrastructure. She assembled an ambitious team, now published in top-tier journals including Physical Review X, Nature Communications, and PRX Quantum.

Recognitions for Gao’s work include Singapore’s Young Scientist Award, the Singapore National Research Foundation Fellowship, and MIT Tech Review’s Innovators Under 35 (Asia-Pacific) Award. Her research team praises her approach and the encouraging and experimental environment she fosters. Her team philosophy is grounded in championing diversity, making science enjoyable, and promoting personal growth.

Extending these values beyond her lab, Gao launched EDIphy (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Physics) in her department, securing funding for speakers and networking events. She also led the creation of a wellbeing committee at the department, providing safe spaces for staff and students to discuss challenges openly. Through her quantum research and attention to culture, Gao demonstrates the positive impact of combining academic rigour and inclusive leadership.