A global network for women academics

Dr Zhao, along with three other colleagues founded and led the CYGNA network for women academics around the world. Now, the network has around 500 members who are women professors. It is to support women in academia.

The name CYGNA comes from the female version of the Greek word for SWAN (Supporting Women in Academia Network). Established in June 2014, the main objective is to promote interaction among female academics and to provide a forum for learning, support, and networking. The team organizes bi-monthly events and has organized over 60 events by 2023.