Yanan holds an MPhil degree in Industrial Systems, Manufacturing, and Management (ISMM) from the Institute for Manufacturing at the University of Cambridge, and a Bachelor of Engineering in Materials Science and Engineering from the National University of Singapore (NUS). Before embarking on her postgraduate studies, Yanan gained substantial experience in the engineering sector. She started her career at Rolls-Royce Singapore as a Manufacturing Engineering Graduate, followed by a role as a Product Engineer at General Electric (GE) Aviation. During her time in industry, Yanan took on diverse roles across various business functions such as the Wide Chord Fan Blade Singapore plant and the Repair Technology & Materials Team at Rolls-Royce.

Yanan’s research interest lies within the area of industrial and innovation policy, focusing on the role of Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs) play within the complex ecosystem. Her master's research dissertation examined the role of RTOs on digitalization in the manufacturing sector, with a specific focus on Singapore's aviation industry. Currently, Yanan works as a research assistant at the Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation (CSTI), where she supports research initiatives related to the contributions and development of RTOs.

Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Yanan enjoys traveling and watching documentaries.