This interview article features Professor Yidong Huang, a pioneering scientist and exceptional community leader in optoelectronics, whose contributions extend beyond academia into entrepreneurship and leadership. As part of a new series launched by Photonics Research, this interview aims to highlight the journeys and achievements of prominent women in optics and photonics. Through insightful reflections, Professor Huang discusses her scientific journey, including the challenges she encountered, her proudest achievements, and her vision for the future of optoelectronics. She also shares advice for young researchers, strategies for maintaining work–life balance, and experiences with technology transfer from academia to industry.

Professor Connie Chang-Hasnain discusses her career in semiconductor optoelectronics with her former student, Prof. Hao Sun.

Professor Marlan Scully discusses his career in quantum optics with the Editor-in-Chief of Photonics Research, Prof. Lan Yang.