Staff Profiles
Dr Chun-yi Lee, SFHEA
Chun-yi Lee is an Associate Professor in Politics and International Relations. She currently teaches three modules at the school and brings her research to the forefront of teaching.
She welcomes students who are interested in China's and Taiwan's developmental strategies, and cross-Strait political economy, technology policy to work with her.
What is your background?
I'm originally from Taiwan, where I began my career at the Institute of International Relations in Taipei, working as a Conference Assistant before transitioning into academia.
What modules do you teach on the course?
I teach China in Global Politics, International Political Economy (IPE) in the Era of Regionalisation and Globalisation, and IPE and Global Development. I'm both a student and a researcher in this field, with a focus on China, Taiwan and East Asia. My goal is to help others understand the key forces that shape our world today.
I think students will enjoy these modules because I provide not only theoretical understanding of those modules but also practical case studies.
East Asia, China and South Asia are dynamic regions, especially with the ongoing United States-China rivalry influencing global affairs. I encourage you to analyse these developments through a theoretical lens, fostering a deeper understanding of world events.
What is your research focus?
I'm currently researching semiconductor supply chains and their connection to global politics. Ensuring a steady supply of chips is crucial for every country. With the growing threat of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, my research is especially relevant to both government officials and industry experts.
I also use what I learn from my research to keep my teaching up to date, which benefits you by providing the latest insights and real-world examples, helping you to better understand the complex relationship between technology, global politics and economic security.
What inspires you to work in this area?
My ongoing interest in the influence of politics on the economy is what drives me. I've been fascinated by issues in political economy since I began my master's at the School of Politics and International Relations at the University of Nottingham.
Do you have any advice for new students?
I was an international MA student years ago, so I understand that many international students struggle when they first arrive in a new country. My advice to all students, whether local or international, is to stay curious about everything.
Postgraduate study is about broadening the scope of your life – therefore the grades are important, but an equally important part is the learning outside of the classroom. The process that you will go through will be a golden time in your life.