How did you become interested in STEM topics?
My parents were engineers, and I seemed to have some talent for math and science, so engineering seemed like a natural choice for me. I earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering management from Yichun University and then entered the workforce as a technician and then a quantity surveyor and budget controller at companies in Beijing. It always bothered me that I had only an undergraduate degree, however; I felt I needed to know a lot more to advance professionally, so I decided to return to school. I was 27 years old at the time, and my parents, who are very traditional, were not happy, because they felt I was too old to be a student. My grandmother encouraged me, though, so that gave me the motivation to persevere.
Describe your academic journey and research up until now
I came to the US to attend the Missouri University of Science and Technology, and in 2019 I earned a master’s degree in systems engineering. I remained there, in a PhD program, until 2020, when I decided to make the switch to civil engineering. I transferred to Stony Brook at that point and expect to earn my doctoral degree later this year.
I work with data analytics and artificial intelligence in the realm of transportation and transportation infrastructure, specifically to devise new methods of bridge inspection using drones.
How do you feel about participating in the Faculty First Look program?
I acknowledge that the application process for tenure-track positions is very difficult, especially when English is not your first language, so I’m very grateful to be getting guidance from faculty members who’ve been through the same process successfully. It’s going to be very encouraging to hear about their own journeys.
What are your ultimate goals?
It’s important to me to be in a position to mentor others, as a way for me to give something in return for all the professors and mentors who have helped me. I also want to continue to do socially beneficial research that will result in better, safer, smarter, transportation-related systems.