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Yuzhu Pearl Li is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the National University of Singapore (NUS), where she leads a research group advancing climate-resilient coastal protection solutions. Her work spans coastal and ocean engineering, focusing on extreme waves, turbulence, marine renewable energy, and sustainable shoreline protection under climate change. Pearl is a former Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellow at the Technical University of Denmark and an Alexander von Humboldt Scholar.
How does it feel to win the award?
Winning this award is a tremendous honour and deeply humbling. It represents not only a personal milestone but also a recognition of the collaborative efforts of my mentors, collaborators, and research team over the years. I am especially grateful to my postdoctoral supervisor, the host of my MSCA Fellowship, Professor David R. Fuhrman from the Technical University of Denmark, whose mentorship and unwavering support were instrumental in my obtaining the fellowship and my current position at the National University of Singapore. I also wish to thank my husband, Dominic Wong, whose understanding and encouragement have been crucial in supporting my international mobility and career development.
Yuzhu Pearl Li
What journey led you to this award?
My journey spans six countries and multiple disciplines – from dual degrees in Engineering and Arts in China to a Master’s in ocean renewable energy in Canada and a PhD in Norway on wave–structure–seabed interaction. A defining moment was receiving the MSCA Fellowship, which led to the development of a turbulence model now central to solving complex coastal problems and set the foundation for my current leadership role at NUS. There, I’ve built a thriving research team, secured over €7 million in grants, and contributed to national coastal resilience strategies. I also shape climate adaptation policy through leadership roles at the Institution of Engineers Singapore and serve on the EU Mission ‘Restore Our Ocean and Waters by 2030’. As both a researcher and educator, I bridge science and practice—mentoring young engineers, advocating for gender equity, and delivering training that translates research into real- world impact.
How will this award propel you in your future endeavours?
The award is a powerful affirmation of my research direction and leadership. It will bolster my efforts to secure international collaborations, attract top talent, and influence science-informed coastal policies, particularly as we tackle rising sea levels and climate uncertainties. It also motivates me to continue leading with purpose—fostering excellence in research, education, and public service.
What are your future goals?
I aim to deepen the scientific understanding of coastal dynamics and the impact of extreme events under climate change and translate that into scalable coastal adaptation solutions. Equally important is nurturing the next generation of engineers and researchers who are not only technically excellent but also socially and environmentally conscious.
What advice do you have for the MCAA?
Continue fostering interdisciplinary connections and supporting early-career researchers through mentoring and mobility opportunities. The MCAA community is uniquely positioned to bridge research, policy, and societal impact.
Is there anything else you wish to share with the community?
Balancing motherhood and a demanding academic career has shown me the value of empathy and resilience. I hope to inspire others—especially women in STEM—to pursue their ambitions while embracing all facets of life. Personal growth and professional excellence are not mutually exclusive—they can enrich each other.
Eliška Koňaříková
Bluesky
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MCAA Newsletter Editor-in-Chief
newsletter.editor@mariecuriealumni.eu
Polat Goktas
Orcid
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MCAA Newsletter Managing Editor
polat.goktas@ucd.ie
Yuzhu Pearl Li in the hydraulic laboratory at the Leichtweiß Institute for Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources.