We welcomed Professor Daijiang Li to the Botany Department in Fall 2025. We asked him to answer a few questions to help us get to know him. Below are his answers.
Please describe your research.
My research focuses on understanding how environmental changes have and will affect plant communities and ecosystems. I use observational studies, manipulative experiments, ecoinformatics, statistical modeling – often as part of an interdisciplinary collaboration – to test basic ecological theory and to provide information useful for managing and conserving biodiversity.
What should the general public know about your area of study? Why is it significant?
Plant communities and ecosystems are vital for the health of our planet. They provide essential services such as clean air and water, climate regulation, and habitat for countless species. Understanding how these systems respond to environmental changes is crucial for effective conservation and management efforts. My research aims to bridge the gap between ecological theory and practical applications, helping to inform policies and practices that protect biodiversity and ecosystem health.
How did you get interested in your subject?
My interest in plant ecology began during my childhood as I explored the forests and fields near my home, where I was captivated by the intricate relationships between plants and their environments. I became increasingly aware of the threats posed by environmental changes such as habitat loss, which motivated me to pursue research that could contribute to our understanding of these issues and inform conservation efforts.
What is the biggest challenge in your area of study?
One of the biggest challenges in plant ecology is the complexity of ecological systems and the lack of high-quality data. With the advances in technology, we now have more tools than ever to collect and analyze data, but integrating this information into a cohesive understanding of plant responses to environmental changes remains difficult. Additionally, there is often a gap between scientific research and policy implementation, which can hinder conservation efforts.
Why are you most excited to join the Botany faculty?
The Botany Department is a unique place with a rich history and a vibrant community of researchers dedicated to understanding plant biology and ecology. It is also where I completed my graduate studies. I am excited to join the faculty to continue my collaboration with colleagues who share my passion for plant science, as well as to contribute to the department’s mission of advancing knowledge and education in botany. I look forward to engaging with students and helping to train the next generation of plant scientists.
If you weren’t in your field or academia, what would you be doing?
I probably will be either a computer scientist or a photographer.
What do you like to do outside of work?
In my free time, I enjoy hiking, photography, and exploring nature. I also like to play sports such as soccer and tennis.
What’s your favorite plant?
Lady’s Slipper Orchid (multiple species in the genus Cypripedium) – I love their unique and intricate flower structure, as well as the specific conditions they require to thrive. It symbolizes the delicate balance of nature and the importance of conservation efforts to protect such beautiful species.
What is your favorite part of field / lab work?
My favorite part of field work is the opportunity to observe plants in their natural habitats and to collect data that can help us understand their ecology. I also enjoy the collaborative aspect of fieldwork, as it often involves working with other researchers and students who share my passion for plant science. In the lab, I appreciate the chance to analyze data and to use statistical models to test hypotheses about plant responses to environmental changes.
What is your least favorite part of field / lab work?
My least favorite part of field work is dealing with mosquitoes and other insects that can be quite bothersome.
What are your favorite memories from your time in grad school?
My favorite memories from graduate school mostly involve the friendships and collaborations I developed with my labmates and colleagues. I fondly remember the long hours spent in the field collecting data, the late-evening discussions about research ideas on the terrace, and the quiet afternoons that we worked on our own projects in the lab. These experiences not only enriched my academic journey but also created lasting bonds that I cherish to this day.