On January 28, 2026, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) announced its annual awards for 2025, with Researcher Zhao Yan from the Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, receiving the prestigious Young Scientist Award in the Basic Research category.

Zhao Yan's research primarily focuses on the molecular mechanisms of neural signal transmission. Leading a dedicated team, Zhao has elucidated the neurotransmitter transport mechanisms and the drug regulation mechanisms relevant to mental disorders, thereby deepening the understanding of brain information transmission. This work provides crucial scientific evidence for the development of safer medications for mental illnesses.

In recent years, Zhao has published over 30 high-impact papers as the corresponding author in journals such as Nature (four times) and Cell. His achievements were recognized as one of the "Top Ten Scientific Advances in China" in 2024, where he was the primary contributor. Zhao also serves as the project leader for a youth project under the Major Science and Technology Project for Innovation 2030, as well as for key research and youth team projects in the basic research domain of the academy.

The CAS Young Scientist Award aims to recognize outstanding young talents who actively undertake major national scientific and technological tasks, boldly challenge global scientific and technological problems, and make significant contributions to overcoming critical core technologies and fundamental frontier issues. These individuals are seen as having the potential to become strategic scientists and leading figures in their fields. The award fosters an environment of innovation and progress within the academy. It is divided into two categories: Basic Research and Engineering Technology, with separate recommendations and evaluations, supporting no more than ten individuals in each category.