Yifei Li’s journey into the sciences began with an insatiable curiosity. Growing up in China’s Henan Province, she was the child who never stopped asking “why?”—so much so that her mother, at times, grew exasperated. But that curiosity never waned. Instead, it became the driving force behind her pursuit of scientific discovery.
“I think about science like a riddle,” Li reflects. “When I see something, I always wonder, why is this happening? How does this work? How did it come to be? Science allows me to find pieces of evidence and fit them together into a clear picture.”
Li’s academic path began at Wuhan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. There, she was first introduced to research, assisting senior students in the lithium-ion battery field. However, it was at Rutgers University, where she pursued her Ph.D. in chemistry, that she fully immersed herself in independent research.
At Rutgers, she worked under Dr. Dismukes, studying CO2 reduction—a field that fascinated her due to its potential environmental benefits. “The greenhouse effect is a serious problem,” she explains. “If we can convert CO2 into useful chemicals, we can help both the environment and energy storage.” Through this research, she honed her ability to design experiments, troubleshoot challenges, and analyze data.
Like any researcher, Li encountered difficulties along the way. “When we’re doing science, we always run into problems,” she acknowledges. “But I’ve learned that if we try hard enough, we can always find a way forward.”
Li has published extensively, viewing scientific publication as a means of sharing knowledge rather than simply showcasing achievements.
“Publishing is a way of letting others know what you’re working on, exchanging ideas, and contributing to the scientific community,” she said. “It’s like teaching, in a way.”
Now, as an applications scientist at HORIBA, Li continues to apply her expertise to Raman spectroscopy. Her role involves method development for customers with diverse applications, from catalysis to structural analysis in aerospace engineering. “I enjoy meeting different customers, seeing their materials, and learning about their applications. It broadens my perspective on Raman instrumentation and lets me apply my problem-solving skills to real-world challenges.”
Beyond method development, Li also provides customer training and data analysis support. She relishes the interpersonal aspects of her job, as she considers herself a “people person.”
“I like interacting with people, understanding how they think, and seeing the world through their perspectives,” she said.
Her love of problem-solving extends beyond science—she also enjoys playing board games, which combine strategy with social interaction.
“Board games are people-oriented and require strategic thinking, which is why I love them,” she said with a smile.
From her childhood fascination with the world’s mysteries to her current role helping others navigate the complexities of Raman spectroscopy, Yufei Li’s scientific journey has been driven by an enduring curiosity.
“I still have that burning desire to understand how things work,” she said. “And I think I always will.”
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