Xiao Yang, an assistant professor of biomedical engineering, has been selected for the MIT Technology Review “Innovators Under 35 Asia Pacific” list, which recognizes 35 of the brightest young minds working in technology today.
Yang was recognized in the “Inventors” category and chosen for her innovative research in bioinspired electronics and neuroengineering platforms. By exploring these fields across molecular, micro, and macro scales, her work aims to drive significant breakthroughs in neural regeneration and the development of brain-machine interfaces (BMIs).
Yang’s notable inventions include the development of a vasculature-like electronic scaffold (VasES). This innovative device is inspired by the brain’s natural blood vessels and designed to provide structural support and cues for healing. Additionally, she created kirigami-inspired electronics (KiriE). Drawing on the art of paper cutting, these devices transform from 2D into 3D structures that can integrate with complex human brain models, providing new tools for studying neural development and disease.
Yang’s interdisciplinary work addresses fundamental challenges by designing electronics that overcome the structural, mechanical, and biochemical mismatch with soft neural tissue, paving the way for next-generation BMIs and regenerative medicine.
“I’m honored to be named to this list,” said Yang. “This recognition encourages us to continue exploring how we can create innovative platforms to address pressing challenges in neural repair and regenerative medicine.”
Yang joined the Johns Hopkins Department of Biomedical Engineering in June 2025. She previously held a position as a postdoctoral scholar at the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute at Stanford University. She earned her PhD in chemistry from Harvard University and her BS in chemistry from Peking University.