Yuan Yao

Dr. Yuan Yao is the Manufacturer’s Association Professor of Industrial Ecology and Sustainable Systems at the Yale School of the Environment. Her research is motivated by the increasing need for sustainable solutions that support industrial development without compromising the environment or depleting resources for future generations. Her research investigates how emerging technologies and industrial development will affect the environment. She uses interdisciplinary approaches in industrial ecology, sustainable engineering, and machine learning to develop systems analysis tools to support engineering and policy decisions toward sustainability. She develops new methods and integrated modeling frameworks to assess, advance, and optimize industrial systems for improved environmental and societal outcomes. Current research projects focus on the bioeconomy and sustainable production.

Dr. Yao received the U.S. National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development Award (CAREER), as well as the Laudise Medal from the International Society of Industrial Ecology. She has been named to the American Institute of Chemical Engineers "35 Under 35" list for emerging leaders in chemical engineering. Dr. Yao also serves as the Associate Editor for Resources, Conservation & Recycling. She has been leading collaborative projects with U.S. national labs, private companies, and non-profits. 

She received her Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering from Northwestern University and a B.S. degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Northeastern University in China.  She also completed the Management for Scientists and Engineers program at the Kellogg School of Management.