NEWS & EVENTS
CPES Congratulates Tianyu Zhao, Ph.D.
Feb 03, 2026
CPES is proud to congratulate Tianyu Zhao on the successful defense of her dissertation, “GaN Device Characterization, Converter Optimization and Development for Enhanced Aviation Systems,” under the guidance of Prof. Rolando Burgos. Her research tackles critical challenges in using gallium nitride (GaN) devices for high-efficiency, high-power-density aviation power systems, bridging fundamental device physics with practical converter design.
Dr. Zhao developed a multi-purpose testing platform to rigorously characterize dynamic RDS(on) in GaN devices under both hard- and soft-switching conditions, providing valuable data to better predict real-world losses in power converters. She translated these insights into innovative system designs, including a high-efficiency three-level totem-pole PFC converter for aircraft in-seat power (achieving 98.4% peak efficiency) and a lightweight, high-performance GaN-based inverter for unmanned aerial vehicles with ultra-low loop inductance and ultrafast short-circuit protection.
Dr. Zhao has begun her professional career as a Senior Power Electronics Engineer at Lucid Motors.
Reflecting on her time at CPES, she noted: “CPES is the giant whose shoulders we stand on—enabling us to see farther, think deeper, and aim higher than we ever could.”
We wish Tianyu continued success as she advances the future of electrified mobility and aviation power systems.
Learn more about https://cpes.vt.edu/news/news/1055
