Zhen GAO

Zhen GAO is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), where he has been employed since April 2021. He received his PhD in Applied Physics from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (2013-2018), following his Master's (2009-2012) and Bachelor's (2005-2009) degrees in Electrical Engineering from Zhejiang University.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Applied Physics, Nanyang Technological University (2013-2018)
• Master's in Electronics Science and Technology, Zhejiang University (2009-2012)
• Bachelor's in Electronic Information Engineering, Zhejiang University (2005-2009)

Professor GAO's research focuses on cutting-edge areas in photonics and topological physics. His work spans multiple disciplines including electromagnetic wave theory, quantum phenomena in photonic systems, and novel material applications. He has established himself as a leading researcher in topological photonics, with significant contributions to the understanding of three-dimensional photonic topological insulators and Chern insulators. His research group, the Topological Physics Lab, actively investigates the intersection of topology, photonics, and condensed matter physics, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in wave manipulation and control.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on three-dimensional topological systems across multiple physical platforms (photonic, acoustic, electronic). His work demonstrates a progression from fundamental theoretical concepts to experimental realizations, with increasing complexity from 2D to 3D systems. The research spans multiple disciplines including condensed matter physics, optics, acoustics, and electrical engineering, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern topological physics research.

His scientific achievements have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards:

• National Distinguished Youth Expert in 2020
• Ten Major Advances in Chinese Optics in 2019
• Top 10 Social Influential Events in Chinese Optical Field in 2019
• Chinese Government Award for Outstanding Self-financed Student Award in 2016
• National-level Talent in Shenzhen
• 2022 Asian International Conference on Communications and Photonics Young Scientist Award
• 2023 International Symposium on Electromagnetic Waves and Optics Young Scientist Award
• 2023 Global Optoelectronics Conference Young Scientist Award

Professor GAO has secured significant research funding through various channels, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China Youth Project, General Project, International (Regional) Cooperation and Exchange Project, and the National Distinguished Expert Project of the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee. He actively mentors students and researchers through his Topological Physics Lab, which recruits postdoctoral fellows, PhD students, Master's students, and interns with backgrounds in optics, physics, electronics, and communications.

The Topological Physics Lab, located in Room 707 of the South Tower of Engineering Building at SUSTech, serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of topology, photonics, and condensed matter physics. The lab maintains strong collaborations with research groups both within China and internationally, particularly with institutions in Singapore.