Name: Zhaoxiang Li

Program: Master’s in Geography (Urban and Regional Planning)

Advisor: Professor Pengjun Zhao

Hometown: Xingtai, Hebei Province

Undergraduate Institution: Tongji University

Hobbies: Badminton, Fitness

Future Plans: Ph.D. in Transportation and Urban Sustainability at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Chasing Dreams with Perseverance

Zhaoxiang Li, a 2022 master’s student in the School of Urban Planning and Design at Peking University, has consistently pursued his passion for transportation systems and their societal, economic, and environmental impacts. A member of the Communist Party of China, Li began his academic journey at Tongji University’s School of Transportation Engineering before joining Peking University.

Throughout his studies, Li has focused on exploring innovative and sustainable pathways for the future of mobility. He ranked first in his cohort in overall academic assessment and has been recognized with numerous honors, including the National Scholarship, Peking University’s “Outstanding Student Leader,” and both municipal and university-level “Outstanding Graduate” awards.

In the fall of 2025, Li will continue his academic journey at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he will pursue a Ph.D. focused on transportation and urban sustainability.

Advancing Knowledge and Scaling Academic Heights

During his master’s studies, Li participated in multiple high-impact research projects, including key initiatives under the National Natural Science Foundation of China. His research has primarily focused on the low-carbon transformation of transport systems and issues of social equity.

He has published six papers in top-tier peer-reviewed journals, such as Nature Communications, Transportation Research Part D, and the Journal of Transport Geography. Li has also been invited to present his research at international conferences, including the CUE2023 Applied Energy Symposium and Forum. Additionally, he serves as a peer reviewer for several journals in the Transportation Research series, actively contributing to academic discourse and standardization within his field.

Integrating Theory with Practice

Li is committed to applying academic knowledge to real-world contexts. He has conducted extensive fieldwork in rural areas across Huizhou, Qingyuan, and Chaozhou, gathering nearly 5,000 survey responses related to rural transportation development.

His work has informed policy recommendations on green and equitable rural mobility, developed in collaboration with the International Energy Foundation and submitted to local governments. Li has also participated in urban planning research in regions such as Hong Kong, Huizhou, and the Chaoshan area, exploring practical approaches to sustainable urban development.

Leadership with a Sense of Responsibility

Beyond his academic achievements, Li has demonstrated strong leadership and dedication to community service. As Head of the Student Life Division of the Graduate Student Union (2022–2023) at the School of Urban Planning and Design, he helped organize key events including the school’s first Graduation Cap DIY Contest and a field trip to Chaoshan.

These efforts enriched campus culture and strengthened peer connections, earning him the title of “Outstanding Contributor of the Year.” He has also supported various academic and organizational activities, including lecture planning, research salons, and experience-sharing sessions.

Holding Steady to His Mission

For Zhaoxiang Li, the path of academic pursuit has never been easy—but he continues to move forward with steadfast commitment. His decision to pursue a Ph.D. at MIT marks a new chapter in his journey to understand how emerging transportation systems impact urban sustainability.

To Li, research is more than intellectual curiosity—it is a powerful means to understand society and address real-world challenges. Aware of the uncertainty that lies ahead, he sees these challenges as opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation.

In the years to come, he hopes to tackle key issues in urban mobility, contribute to academic advancement, and realize his vision of more equitable and sustainable cities.

Message to Fellow Students:

“May you walk toward the light, bathe in its warmth, and find your own path in passion and exploration.”

Awards and Academic Highlights:

• Scholarships      and Honors: National Scholarship; “Outstanding Student      Leader” at Peking University; Outstanding Graduate (Peking University and      Beijing Municipality)

• Publications: 6      papers published in Nature Communications, Transportation      Research Part D, Journal of Transport Geography, and other      SCI/SSCI journals

• Leadership      Roles: Head of the Student Life Division, Graduate      Student Union; “Outstanding Contributor of the Year” at the School of      Urban Planning and Design