Our International Women’s Day 2024 Series celebrates GETCO2’s trailblazer women in Science.
Yu Yang
Yu Yang is a PhD candidate in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Sydney. She is conducting research in the field of ‘Electrochemical Carbon Dioxide/Carbon Monoxide Reduction’ under the supervision of Dr. Fengwang Li. She is interested in CO2 capture and utilisation, specifically (bi)carbonate/carbamate conversion, and is trying to develop a carbon-efficient CO2 conversion system.
Yu won the Best Student Presentation Award at GETCO2’s International Symposium on Green Transformation of Carbon Dioxide in 2023.
What are you most proud of in your career?
I am most proud of my ability to overcome challenges and continually grow both personally and professionally throughout my career. Whether it’s tackling complex projects, navigating new technologies, or fostering collaborations, each achievement has been a stepping stone toward realising my goals and making a positive impact in my field.
What do you love most about your research?
What I love most about my research is the opportunity to explore the unknown and contribute to advancements in science and technology. Every day brings new discoveries, challenges, and opportunities for innovation, allowing me to constantly learn and push the boundaries of knowledge in my field.
What is your advice for other women to excel in their careers?
My advice for other women aiming to excel in their careers is to be confident. Believe in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to take risks or pursue opportunities outside your comfort zone. Seek out mentors and mates who can support and champion your growth. Setbacks are always part of the journey—use them as opportunities to learn and grow stronger.
The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is ‘Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress‘. How do we invest in women in research and science?
I think we can invest in women in research and science by actively promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity in all aspects of the scientific community. This includes creating welcoming and supportive platforms and environments where individuals from diverse backgrounds feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We also need to encourage open dialogue and collaboration, challenge biases, and promise equity in opportunities and resources.