Research Experience
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Research
University of Georgia
May 2024 – Present
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Athens, Georgia
LabAgent Development
• Led the development of a multi-agent AI-embedded learning platform that integrates simulations, large language models (LLMs), and adaptive feedback to support student-centered inquiry.
• Programmed and deployed interactive simulations (e.g., Vibe-coded environments) to model physical phenomena and support students' experimentation and hypothesis testing.
InquiryAgent Development
• Designed and developed NGSS-aligned science inquiry curricula, embedding machine learning (ML) as an investigation tool.
• Created multi-modal instructional materials, including videos, interactive notebooks, and LLM-based content generators, to support diverse learners and enhance engagement.
Auto-SPIN (Automatic Measure of Student Reasoning Patterns in Science Argumentation) Development
• Designed AI-supported science argumentation activities focused on ecosystem phenomena, integrating data exploration, modeling, and Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (C-E-R) structures.
• Co-developed the AI feedback framework that identifies students’ CER patterns and delivers adaptive, pedagogically aligned guidance during argument construction.
• Collaborated on assessment task design using large language models (LLMs) to generate automated instructional feedback, refine reasoning prompts, and support student engagement across diverse contexts.
• Participated in iterative design cycles with ETS and UGA teams, analyzing student interaction
data to refine validity, usability, and alignment with NGSS scientific practices.
User Experience Research
User Experience Research (UXR)
University of Virginia
May 2024 – May 2025
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Charlottesville, Virginia
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Conducting user research to understand students' needs, behaviors, and experiences using the AI curriculum.
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Designing and implementing user surveys; interview protocols
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Conducting interviews to understand students' perspectives on AI
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Collecting pre- and post-survey survey
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Analyzing research data to identify pain points and opportunities for improving the curriculum and lesson plans.
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Designing A/B testing to compare the activity designs
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Conducting usability testing in different locations to redesign the curriculum.
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Presenting research findings and recommendations to the curriculum development team and other stakeholders.
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Modifying course content and timetable to suit each school's circumstances.
Academic Research
Experience
Graduate Research Assistant
University of Virginia
January 2024 – Present
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Charlottesville, Virginia
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Quantitative Research/Qualitative Research
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Artificial Intelligence for Advancing Instruction, Video Bounding
Graduate Research Assistant
University of Virginia
August 2021 – Present
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Charlottesville, Virginia
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Quantitative Research
Test Survey Validity: Utilizing item response theory (IRT) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to validate survey instruments and test effectiveness and reliability.
Data Analysis: Analyzing large-scale research data using statistical software packages such as R® and STATA®. Interpret findings and prepare comprehensive reports for dissemination among stakeholders.
Meta-Analysis: Conducting meta-analytical reviews to synthesize existing research findings and provide robust conclusions that guide project direction. -
Qualitative Research
Methodology Development: Participating in pioneering research projects that utilize AI, particularly large language models (LLMs), for analyzing qualitative textual data. Contribute to the advancement of methodological frameworks.
Interview Protocol Development: Designing and developing protocols for conducting interviews. Ensure that all protocols meet the research objectives and compliance standards.
Conduct Interviews: Carrying out structured interviews according to the developed protocols. Engage with diverse populations to gather relevant data.
Coding and Analysis: Transcribe, code, and analyze interview transcripts to extract meaningful patterns and insights through Dedoose®.
Training Workshop
American Institutes for Research
June 2024
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Arlington, Virginia
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National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)
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Analyzed large-scale NAEP data using R®. Interpret findings and prepare comprehensive reports.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Zhejiang Normal University
June 2018 – June 2019
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China
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Plant Ecology
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Analyzed species composition, life-form characteristics, and floristic composition of wild Camellia oleifera, a species of flower, community in Gutianshan.
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Wrote academic reports and an undergraduate dissertation.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Zhejiang Normal University
August 2017 – August 2018
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China
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Physiological Ecology-Animal Physiology and Behavior
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Conducted an ecological experiment to investigate the effects of Acrossocheilus fasciatus, a species of fish, on its growth performance and the regulatory mechanisms involved in gonadal development.
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Collected DNA and RNA samples from the fish
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Performed PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to amplify and analyze specific genes related to growth and gonadal development
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Analyzed data using SPSS® and Origin 8.0®
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Detailed data analysis to identify patterns and regulatory mechanisms affecting the physiological traits
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Won 2nd prize in school and regional competitions and 3rd Prize in the national competition.