Trained as an ecologist and landscape architect, Tao is active in the arena of ecological design, striving to bridge the gap between practice and science. As well as being mindful and invested in creative expression, he seeks inspiration from science and always roots his design in deep understanding of the project’s socio-ecological system. He believes in designed spaces that are holistic in both aesthetics and functionality. Tao is an integral part of Sasaki’s strong international presence and has led and contributed to a number of award winning projects.

Tao is a strong advocate for critical thinking and independent research to invigorate the profession. He has led research initiatives and collaborated with academic institutes on topics including post-occupancy metrics and environmental health.

Tao has published in peer-reviewed journals and speaks frequently at conferences around the world. Besides practice, he has taught landscape architecture at Rhode Island School of Design and has been a visiting studio critic at Harvard Graduate School of Design, MIT, Northeastern University and Boston Architectural College. He holds a Master of Landscape Architecture and a Master of Science in Sustainable Systems from University of Michigan, and degrees in Landscape Ecology and Natural Resources from Fudan University in Shanghai.