Luyao Li | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Book of Award

Dr. Luyao Li | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Peking University | China

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📚 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

 

Xi Li | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Book of Award

Dr. Xi Li | Arts and Humanities | Best Researcher Award

Beijing Normal University | China

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Xi Li's academic journey began with a strong foundation in Chinese history. In 2021, she completed her Doctorate at Tsinghua University, where she specialized in the study of Sui and Tang social life history, women's history, and Buddhist history. Her deep interest in these subjects led her to explore the intersection of religion, society, and gender in medieval China.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

In 2022, Dr. Li furthered her expertise by becoming a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of South Asian Studies at Peking University. Under the guidance of her co-tutor Zhan Ru, Dr. Li expanded her research to explore South Asian influences on Chinese history, particularly focusing on the cultural and religious exchanges that shaped medieval Chinese society.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Li has made notable contributions to the understanding of Chinese Buddhist rituals and gender dynamics in historical practices. One of her key publications, "Buddhist Ritual of Offering During the Tang: An Approach Based on the Colophons of Fangshan Stone Scriptures" (Wen Shi, 2019), investigates the rituals associated with Buddhist offerings during the Tang Dynasty, providing new insights into religious practices of the time. Her research on the Bon-odori festival, titled "To Save Father or Mother—A review upon the medieval Bon-odori Festival from the perspective of gender" (Journal of Chinese Literature and History, 2019), offers a gendered perspective on this traditional festival, shedding light on societal views of familial roles in medieval China. Additionally, her 2022 paper "Discussion on the change of the story of King Ajātaśatru's murder of his father and imprison of his mother" (Mt Wutai Researches) delves into the evolution of an ancient narrative and its significance in both Buddhist and historical contexts.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Li has garnered significant academic recognition for her work, particularly her contributions to Chinese history and Buddhist studies. Her articles, which have been published in reputable journals such as Wen Shi and Journal of Chinese Literature and History, are considered valuable resources for scholars in these fields. Her research has also been acknowledged by institutions such as Tsinghua University and Peking University, reflecting her growing influence in her specialized areas of study.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Through her research, Dr. Li has had a profound impact on the field of Chinese history, especially regarding the intersections of religion, gender, and social structures. Her work has not only advanced scholarly understanding of Tang Dynasty Buddhism but has also contributed to the broader discourse on gender studies and social practices in historical China. Dr. Li’s work continues to inspire fellow historians and researchers interested in these critical areas.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As Dr. Li continues to advance in her academic career, her future contributions are poised to further shape the understanding of ancient Chinese society and its historical narratives. By expanding her research on South Asian influences and refining her focus on Buddhist rituals and gender history, Dr. Li is well on her way to becoming a leading scholar in the study of medieval East Asia. Her work promises to leave a lasting legacy in both the academic community and the broader historical understanding of the region.

 

Publications

  • 📝 From Aniruddha to Upāli—Examining the Compilation of the Sutra of the Buddha’s Mother and the Formation of Chinese Buddhist Scriptures
    Author: Xi Li
    Journal: Religions
    Year: 2024
  • 📝 Buddhist Ritual of Offering During the Tang: An Approach Based on the Colophons of Fangshan Stone Scriptures
    Author: Xi Li
    Journal: Wen Shi
    Year: 2019
  • 📝 To Save Father or Mother——A review upon the medieval Bon-odori Festival from the perspective of gender
    Author: Xi Li
    Journal: Journal of Chinese Literature and History
    Year: 2019
  • 📝 Discussion on the change of the story of King Ajātaśatru's murder of his father and imprison of his mother
    Author: Xi Li
    Journal: Mt Wutai Researches
    Year: 2022