Yong Mao is an Associate Research Professor and the lead biologist in the Laboratory for Biomaterials Science. She joined Rutgers in 2013, having developed both academic and industrial research experience. Her research interests include cell–biomaterial interaction, extracellular matrix/synthetic hybrid bioactive scaffolds, stem cell technology, infection-resistant biomaterials, and wound healing. She has established and led multiple industrial collaborations. She also enjoys mentoring undergraduate students and developing their independent research capabilities. She directs the biological laboratory and microbiology laboratory at the LBR and leads collaborations with internal and external research groups.