Yan Zhao

Professional Background

Yan Zhao is a dynamic and innovative engineer with a profound commitment to reducing emissions through transport electrification. With a career initiated in research at the esteemed Imperial College London in 2015, Yan honed their expertise in the field of lithium-ion battery technology. Specializing in battery testing, modeling, thermal management systems design, and the characterization of solid-state batteries, they have developed a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of energy storage systems critical for sustainable transportation.

In 2019, Yan received their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Battery Engineering from Imperial College London, which is widely recognized for its cutting-edge research and contributions to engineering sciences. Following their academic achievements, Yan co-founded Breathe Battery Technologies to address the contemporary challenges faced by existing battery technologies. At Breathe, Yan and their team are at the forefront of developing advanced battery management solutions that not only enhance the performance of electric mobility but also contribute significantly to broader applications in the energy landscape.

Education and Achievements

Yan Zhao completed their Master of Engineering (MEng) in Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London, where they spent an additional year gaining valuable industry experience. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for a robust career in the engineering sector, where they can apply their technical knowledge to real-world challenges.

Throughout their career, Yan has held key positions, including a Research Assistant role at Imperial College London, where they contributed to pioneering research projects related to battery technologies. They have also served as a Consultant at Imperial Consultants (ICON), providing technical expertise and consultancy services to various stakeholders in the energy sector.

As the former Enterprise Fellow at the Royal Academy of Engineering, Yan showcased their leadership and entrepreneurship skills, which led to the successful launch of Breathe Battery Technologies. Under their guidance as CTO, the company is developing innovative solutions aimed at optimizing battery management systems and addressing the pressing issues of battery longevity, efficiency, and safety. Yan’s efforts in battery system engineering have positioned Breathe at the cutting edge of battery technology innovation.

Notable Projects and Contributions

During their tenure at Imperial College London, Yan played a crucial role as Battery System Lead and Team Principal with Imperial Racing Green, where they contributed to high-performance electric vehicle projects. Their experience also includes an R&D Industrial Placement at Caterpillar Inc., where they applied their engineering prowess to significant projects, further broadening their understanding of advanced manufacturing and engineering processes.

Yan's dedication to excellence in battery technology continues to spur advancements that not only enhance electric mobility but also positively impact the environment. Their work embodies a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and advancing technology for a greener future.