Dr. Can Yao’s Journey of Innovation and Inspiration

Welcome to the LIGENTEC Portrait Series, where we celebrate the talented individuals driving innovation within our company. Through their stories, we aim to inspire the next generation of innovators by sharing the journeys of female scientists like Dr.Can Yao, a leading Application Engineer in photonics. Her work on low-loss silicon nitride (SiN) platforms and photonic integrated circuits (PICs) demonstrates the impactful contributions of female scientists, driving real-world applications and advancing LIGENTEC’s mission.

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in science / in your discipline?

In middle school, I drew inspiration from the story of Marie Curie. Her dedication to science and commitment to advancing knowledge and improving human well-being sparked my passion for a career in science.

2. Who are your role models?

The unwavering determination and resilience displayed by my sister and aunt as they pursued higher education later in life serves as a great inspiration for me to venture into new horizons. Additionally, the adventurous spirit of Marco Polo during his ancient travels to China has imparted in me the significance of cultural exchange and the promotion of collaboration and friendship between East and West.

3. How did you get to where you are in your career path?

Through dedication and perseverance, I secured a spot at one of China’s premier universities, which broadened my perspective immensely. Venturing to Barcelona for my PhD exposed me to a vibrant international community, teeming with diverse cultures. Joining EPFL for my postdoc was the realization of a long-held dream, where I observed firsthand how groundbreaking research stems from curiosity, innovation, and unwavering commitment. Coordinating the FINESSE project, a major EU initiative supporting the education of 15 PhD students from eight EU countries in optical fiber sensing, was a privilege. Managing program schedules, crafting reports, organizing training events, and overseeing budgets allowed me to establish connections with over 20 partners in academia and industry.

4. What is the coolest project you have worked on and why?

The Zermatt project has been the most thrilling experience I’ve ever been a part of. I was engaged in the entire process, from the initial contact and remote exchange of ideas to on-site visits, creating a proof of concept, and developing the prototype. This project marks our first design win, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see our photonic integrated circuits (PICs) being utilized in real-world products. Contributing to such a project allows me to play a role in advancing technology for the betterment of society, reinforcing my belief in the positive impact of our work.

5. What’s a time you felt immense pride in yourself / your work?

When a client expressed gratitude, saying I had been instrumental in their success, I felt immense pride. It was a significant moment that reaffirmed my dedication to my work and the impact it can have on others. Knowing that my contributions helped others achieve their goals is deeply fulfilling and motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my field.

6. What is a “day in the life” of you like?

My typical day revolves around meaningful communication with customers and colleagues. I actively engage in project management, strategic planning, and technical discussions, while also embracing the essential role of marketing. Attending events, networking with industry professionals, and crafting articles for WeChat allows me to maintain a dynamic and impactful presence, contributing to both the technical and commercial aspects of our projects.

7. What are you seeking to accomplish in your career?

I am dedicated to leading impactful projects like Zermatt, empowering our PICs to make a difference in practical applications. My aim is to pioneer innovative projects that address real-world challenges and to mentor the next generation of scientists and engineers, sharing my insights to guide them on their journey in the field.

8. What do you like to do when you’re not doing research?

I find joy in singing, songwriting, reading, and playing the piano. These creative outlets allow me to express myself and recharge. I also enjoy running and hiking in nature, which provides a refreshing break from my daily routine. Dancing is another passion of mine; I took oriental dance classes for a year during my Master’s studies, and it was an enriching experience. In the summer, you’ll find me swimming in the beautiful Swiss lakes, enjoying the tranquility of nature and the joys of life.

9. What advice do you have for other women interested in science / in your discipline?

Always have confidence and believe that you will find a way to use your skills and make the world a better place. See challenges as opportunities for growth and pursue your passions without hesitation. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who can motivate you. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your goals and can inspire others to pursue their paths in science.