Zhen Li

  • Ph.D. Student
  • ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Zhen Li Headshot

Bio

Zhen Li is a first-year Ph.D. student in Environmental Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder. His research focuses on the intersection of critical minerals and their associated environmental and social issues. He is particularly interested in promoting sustainable supply chain for renewable energy and Artificial Intelligence, from downstream to upstream actors.

Before joining ENVS, he worked with multiple organizations as a consultant, including Oxfam, The Asia Foundation, and Diplomats Without Borders, focusing on the nexus between environment and conflict. In his free time, he enjoys playing sports such as basketball, soccer, and swimming.

Research Interests

  • Intersection of critical minerals and their associated environmental and social issues
  • Sustainable supply chains for renewable energy and Artificial Intelligence

Education

  • MS in Global Affairs, New York University, 2023
  • BA in English Linguistics, Nantong University, China, 2020

Faculty Advisors

  • Dr. David Ciplet
  • Dr. Zia Mehrabi