Dr Ju Yao
Researcher biography
Dr Ju Yao specialises in metal additive manufacturing, microstructural characterisation, and hydrogen embrittlement. She was awarded her PhD from The University of Queensland in 2025. Her research focuses on understanding how processing influences microstructure and properties to improve the reliability and sustainability of advanced metallic materials.
Her work centres on structure–property relationships in high-strength alloys, particularly additively manufactured steels and, more recently, copper and copper-based materials. She integrates advanced characterisation with modelling to reveal how microstructural features govern mechanical performance, corrosion behaviour, and hydrogen-related degradation.
Key areas of expertise include:
- Metal additive manufacturing (steels and Cu-based alloys)
- Hydrogen embrittlement and corrosion science
- Microstructural characterisation
- Electrochemical testing and mechanical property evaluation
Dr Yao has published in leading international journals and contributes to advancing knowledge in materials degradation and advanced manufacturing. She collaborates with academic and industry partners to develop innovative alloy design and processing strategies.
Her research aims to deliver high-performance, durable, and sustainable metallic materials for applications in energy, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing systems.