Recognized as an innovator in green engineering and a champion for equity, York University Associate Professor Cuiying Jian will spend the 2025-26 academic year as a York Massey Fellow at the University of Toronto to advance her research.
This prestigious fellowship recognizes Jian for her genuine commitment to diversity in engineering and her significant contributions to developing sustainable and inclusive solutions that address society’s most pressing environmental challenges.
The fellowship, awarded to full-time York faculty members on sabbatical or other leave, provides access to dedicated office space, library resources and full participation in the academic and social life of the college. Fellows hold the title “York Fellow of Massey College” for life or while mutually agreeable.
Jian’s research in the Lassonde School of Engineering focuses on developing sustainable applications for carbon-intensive materials, specifically heavy hydrocarbons. Her work aims to transform these materials from environmental liabilities into valuable assets with applications in energy storage, wastewater management and environmental sensing.
In addition to her research, Jian is recognized as an advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within engineering. She has pioneered initiatives that integrate EDI principles into academic assessments at York University, shifting traditional evaluation methods.
"I believe that true innovation in engineering comes from diverse perspectives working together towards common goals,” says Jian. “As a York Massey Fellow, I am excited to expand my research on sustainable technologies while fostering an environment where every voice is valued. Together, we can create solutions that not only address our environmental challenges but also promote equity and inclusion in our field."
As Chair of the national EDI standing committee for the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering (CSME), she aims to foster diverse representation and equitable opportunities in the field.
Jian's contributions have earned her multiple accolades that highlight her technical expertise and commitment to driving change within the engineering sector, including the 2025 CSME I.W. Smith Award, the 2025 Lassonde Innovation Award and the 2024 Petro-Canada Emerging Innovator Award.
Read more about Jian’s research.