Hi there~, welcome to my website. This is Yao. I am a sea-going physical oceanographer. Currently, I am a research scientist at the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). I will soon begin my new role as an assistant professor at the College of Marine Science (CMS), University of South Florida (USF). I am recruiting graduate students to start in fall 2025. Please see Prospective student webpage for information about the application process. Alongside my scientific work, I’m also exploring my passion for photography. Here, you’ll find updates on my latest research and some of my recent photography work.

My research

Climate change has become a central issue in global discussion. Yet the ocean’s critical role in regulating our climate is far from being understood. My fascination with the ocean began in childhood, drawn to the peace it brings. This passion led me to pursue a career as a physical oceanographer, where my research centers on large-scale ocean circulation in the Atlantic and its influence on global climate. Below are some of the key topics in my research:

1. Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation and water mass (AMOC OSNAP)
2. Subtropic Cell (STC)
3. Watermass property change (AAIW)
4. Wind-driven circulation (Ekman transport)

About me

I am originally from China and have been living abroad for many years. I completed my undergraduate studies in the coastal city of Dalian, China, before moving to Kiel in Northern Germany, where I earned my master degree and Ph.D. in physical oceanography at GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel. During that time, I enjoyed traveling throughout Europe. Before starting my current position in the U.S., I also returned to China and worked as a scientist for three years. Now, I am exploring both work and life in the U.S. while also practicing photography.