Dr. Luyao Li | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award
Peking University | China
Author Profile
📚 Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Luyao Li’s academic journey is a fusion of philosophy and interdisciplinary learning. She earned her Ph.D. in Philosophy from Nanyang Technological University in 2024, with a dissertation exploring the co-existence of harmony and freedom in the Zhuangzi. Prior to this, she pursued an M.A. in Philosophy at Tongji University, where she examined Zhuangzi’s Gongfu (工夫) theory through the lens of the Kun-Peng image. Her academic foundation also includes a B.A. in Engineering from the same institution, highlighting her diverse intellectual interests. Her scholarly endeavors took her beyond China, with a year as a visiting student at the University of Chicago, an experience that enriched her global philosophical perspective.
🏛️ Professional Endeavors
Currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at Peking University’s Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Dr. Li actively contributes to academic research and philosophical discourse. She has served as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Chicago, co-teaching a course on "Star Wars and Religion," reflecting her ability to bridge classical thought with modern cultural narratives. Her role as a Research Assistant in projects at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Management University, and the University of Chicago showcases her dedication to reconstructing Confucian and Daoist concepts in contemporary discourse.
✨ Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Li's research revolves around Chinese Philosophy, Daoism, and Comparative Philosophy. Her studies delve into harmony, freedom, and virtue in the Zhuangzi, exploring themes that resonate with both ancient wisdom and modern interpretations. Her academic contributions include multiple publications in renowned journals such as The Philosophical Forum, Religions, and Asian Philosophy. She has also engaged in translation work, making influential philosophical texts accessible to wider audiences. Beyond publications, she has presented her insights at prestigious conferences, including the International Society for Chinese Philosophy and the American Oriental Society, discussing decentralization in harmony, individual virtuosities, and Confucian positive freedom.
🏆 Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Li’s academic excellence has been recognized with numerous scholarships and awards. She received scholarships from the University of Chicago, including the Scholarship for International Students and a Conference Travel Grant. Additionally, the Kongzi Culture Fund honored her with the Tan Ean Kiam Chinese Philosophy Scholarship. Her early achievements include a Second Prize award from East China Normal University’s Doctoral Academic Seminar and multiple scholarships from Tongji University for her outstanding academic and social contributions.
🌏 Impact and Influence
Dr. Li’s work extends beyond traditional academia, influencing the broader landscape of Chinese philosophy in a globalized world. Her research fosters cross-cultural philosophical dialogues, bridging classical Chinese thought with contemporary interpretations. By engaging with international audiences through conferences, translations, and teaching, she contributes to the accessibility and appreciation of Daoist and Confucian philosophy. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates Eastern and Western perspectives, creating a dynamic space for philosophical discourse.
🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions
As Dr. Li continues her postdoctoral research, her contributions to Chinese philosophy are poised to deepen and expand. Her focus on harmony and freedom in Daoism offers valuable insights for contemporary ethical and political thought. Her legacy lies in her ability to illuminate classical Chinese wisdom in a modern, global context. Whether through future publications, teaching, or interdisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Luyao Li is shaping the future of Chinese philosophy, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
Publications
📜Responsive Harmony in the Zhuangzi
Author: Li, L.
Journal: Religions
Year: 2025
📜Harmonizing Virtuosities in the Zhuangzi
Author: Li, L.
Journal: Asian Philosophy
Year: 2024
📜 Dao Companion to the Philosophy of the Zhuangzi (Edited by Kim-chong Chong)
Author: Li, L.
Journal: Philosophy East and West
Year: 2024