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Reves Center Announces 2026 International Student Achievement Awards
The Reves Center has recognized Ying Li, a doctoral student from China in Â鶹Æƽâ°æ’s computer science Ph.D. program, with a 2026 International Student Achievement Award.
Li was nominated by Yifan Sun, assistant professor of computer science in the School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics, who has served as her doctoral advisor since she joined Â鶹Æƽâ°æ in 2020.
During her time at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ, Li has built an exceptional academic record marked by research excellence, intellectual independence and a strong commitment to mentoring others. Sun praised her ability to challenge established approaches and develop elegant, first-principles solutions, calling it a sign of unusual academic maturity.
Li’s work spans AI systems and research infrastructure, with a focus on intelligent decision support for next-generation large-scale AI systems. Her research has led to publications at top venues in the field and has helped open new directions that have attracted external support, including contributing to a successful $1.1 million National Science Foundation grant. She has also developed collaborations with industry partners such as Meta and Lightmatter, as well as national laboratories including Jefferson Lab.
In addition to her research accomplishments, Li has emerged as a leader and mentor in her lab. She has guided junior Ph.D. students through every stage of the research process, from shaping ideas to writing papers and preparing figures. Sun noted that Li stands out not only for her technical expertise, but also for helping students understand how their individual contributions connect to broader research goals.
Li is also dedicated to supporting underrepresented students in computing. Through her mentoring, she has paid particular attention to students facing structural barriers, including international scholars navigating visa challenges and students from nontraditional backgrounds entering the field.
Sun described Li as generous with her time, strategic in her thinking and a pleasure to work with. Her combination of scholarly achievement, leadership, resilience and warmth, he said, makes her an outstanding representative
of Â鶹Æƽâ°æ’s international student community.
