Guo Chen

Dr. Guo Chen (she/her) is an Associate Professor in Geography & Global Urban Studies at Michigan State University's College of Social Science. She is also a core faculty member of the Asian Pacific American Studies Program and affiliated with the Environmental Science and Policy Program, Asian Studies Center, and GenCen.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Geography, Pennsylvania State University
• M.S. & B.S. in Geography and Regional Planning, Nanjing University

Dr. Chen's research focuses on urban poverty, social and environmental justice, and migrant communities in China and the Global South. Her work combines mixed-methods research with creative pedagogy involving documentaries and simulations. She has contributed to journals like The Professional Geographer, PLoS ONE, and Urban Studies.

Her recent edited works include How to Foster Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice in Geography (2024) and the Hidden Geographies journal issues. Her publications analyze housing rights, urban resilience, and institutional bias through empirical studies in cities like Guangzhou, Beijing, and Hong Kong.

Scientific Awards:

• Wilson Center Fellowship (2017–2018)
• AAG CGSG Outstanding Service Award (2020)
• Lilly Fellow for Teaching Excellence (2022–2023)
• GenCen Inspiration Award (2023)
• Outstanding Women of Color Trailblazer Award (2024)

As an educator, Dr. Chen teaches courses like Global Slums and China and Globalization, integrating visuals and simulations into her pedagogy. She mentors graduate students and leads university DEI initiatives, including chairing MSU's President's Advisory Committee on Disability Issues (2021–2022).