An internationally recognized expert in fibre optics and photonics, Professor Bao has authored or co-authored more than 670 peer-reviewed papers and conference proceedings. Her research bridges fibre optics, microelectronics and photonics, leading to advancements in telecommunications, infrastructure monitoring, and medical imaging and diagnostics.
“I chose optics and photonics because it combines fundamental science with real-world applications,” she explains. “Optics is everywhere—in cellphone and computer displays, cameras, AI sensors, health-care devices, and systems that monitor the structural health of planes, pipelines, dams, bridges and trains. It connects physics to everyday life.”
“I chose optics and photonics because it combines fundamental science with real-world applications”
Xiaoyi Bao
— Professor, Department of Physics
Professor Bao’s achievements have been recognized with three CAP medals: the 2010 CAP-INO Medal for Outstanding Achievement in Applied Photonics, the 2013 CAP Medal for Outstanding Achievement in Industrial and Applied Physics, and most recently, the 2024 CAP Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Physics. At the CAP Congress in May 2024, CAP President Professor William Whelan announced that Professor Bao is the first person—and the first woman—to receive all three honours.
The 2024 CAP Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Physics acknowledges Professor Bao’s decades of pioneering research. Her work has led to innovative uses of light and optical fibres to detect microscopic cracks, material fatigue and seismic activity. These technologies have contributed to the prevention of oil spills, infrastructure failures and transportation accidents—helping protect lives, reduce environmental harm and avoid significant financial loss.
Her research has also enhanced the reliability of high-speed communications and strengthened Canada’s telecom networks. “It’s meaningful to have colleagues recognize the effort and innovation behind our work,” she says.
Equally important to her scientific accomplishments is Professor Bao’s commitment to mentorship. In recognition of her service to the physics community, she received the CAP Fellowship Award for her support of students and early-career researchers. Her guidance has helped many individuals—including women—pursue faculty positions, launch startups, and take on leadership roles.
Known for her empathy and flexibility, Professor Bao tailors her guidance to each student’s needs. She offers assistance during times of illness, supports remote work for parents with young children, and ensures her students have access to mentors who can help them grow. She fosters an environment where critical thinking, collaboration and personal development are central. “Watching students grow in their careers is the most rewarding part of what I do,” she says.
Currently, her research is focused on developing advanced quantum sensing devices for biomedical applications. These efforts aim to reduced thermal noise and increase imaging precision by integrating quantum sensing with acoustic excitation to address current limitations in photoacoustic imaging.
Professor Xiaoyi Bao’s career reflects the power of combining scientific innovation, practical impact and thoughtful mentorship. Her work continues to influence both her field and the many individuals she has supported along the way.
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