Research Interests

Main Interests

My philosophy is that: innovation advances humanity; innovation also divides humanity. My research thus explores how rules and norms influence social inequality and the outcomes of technological innovation. I focus on two interrelated themes: (1) the institutional and behavioral drivers of social and economic inequality; and (2) the role of institutions and incentives in guiding innovation. A common interest in these areas is understanding how formal policies and informal practices can entrench disparities or promote transformative progress.

Additional Interests

I am also interested in understanding broader social phenomena and policy systems, applying empirical strategies to study human behavior and uncover social patterns. Currently, my additional projects investigate environmental, political, and urban development issues. Beyond these specific topics, I aim to explore deeper social mechanisms and phenomena, such as the divergence between objective outcomes and subjective perceptions, the differentiated effects of the same policy across top-down and bottom-up stages, and the choice and impacts of technological versus institutional governance.

Database

I am committed to building unique new datasets that not only benefit my own research but also have broader societal value. I have already established (and continue to expand) several large, unique datasets in the fields of innovation, labor, and economic history. I also welcome opportunities to acquire unique data through collaborations and to leverage these resources to advance both theoretical and applied research.

PS: I am currently collaborating with my advisors to lead research teams on these projects. If you are interested in RA positions or would like to collaborate on my database, please send me your cover letter and CV (or proposal).