CAI Yanjun

CAI Yanjun is a Research Fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities (LKYCIC), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). Her work focuses on urban climate resilience, digital engagement, and inclusive development in Asia-Pacific regions. She leads research on marginalized populations' adaptation strategies using innovative methods like photovoice, emphasizing climate justice and participatory governance.

Education:

• PhD in Urban and Regional Planning, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (2017)
• MA in Sociology, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (2011)
• MA in Cultural Management, Chinese University of Hong Kong (2009)
• BA in Chinese Language and Literature, Beijing Normal University (2008)

Research Interests:

• Climate resilience frameworks in flood-prone cities (e.g., Manila)
• Social entrepreneurship among ethnic minority women in Yangon
• Nature-based solutions for urban sustainability (e.g., stream daylighting in Guangzhou)
• Photovoice methodology for participatory urban planning
• Equity in smart city development

Current Projects: Supporting the 'Smart Sustainability Transformation' initiative led by Prof. Belinda Yuen. Recent work explores gender dynamics in China's digital transportation systems and age-friendly urban design.

Grants & Collaboration: Active in transnational research networks, including the Chen TianQiao Programme. Collaborates with global institutions on Southeast Asian urban climate resilience case studies.