Ying completed her honours degree at The University of Melbourne where she undertook her research investigating the effects of hydrologic isolation of floodplains on riparian vegetation along urban streams. As a research assistant in the university, she undertook numerous ecological and water quality surveys in Victoria as well as assisting data management and analysis for riparian ecologists in the research group.

As a graduate environmental scientist who loves waterways, she is fascinated by the complexity of natural systems in the urban environment and highly appreciates the science behind waterway management.

Ying is passionate about volunteering and is actively involved with the Port Phillip Ecocentre contributing to field research for the Turn off the Tap project – a citizen science-based study on plastic pollution in Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne. During her free time, she can be seen taking water samples from Merri Creek and lakes in Westgate Park where she regularly volunteers as a Waterwatch officer to conduct monthly water quality tests.