Jianhua Li

Dr. Jianhua Li is the T. Elliot Weier Professor of Biology at Hope College since 2009, previously serving as a senior research scientist at Harvard University's Arnold Arboretum. He is a key figure in plant systematics, focusing on Northern Hemisphere flora and disjunct distributions between the Old and New Worlds. He teaches courses such as General Biology I/II, Advanced Plant Biology, and Evolutionary Biology.

Education:

• Ph.D. (1997) and Postdoctorate (1998) in Plant Systematics, Harvard University
• M.S. (1987) in Plant Biology, Huazhong Normal University
• B.S. (1984) in Biology, Henan Normal University

Research Interests: Dr. Li explores taxonomy, phylogenetics, biogeography, and trait evolution in plants like conifers, maples, birches, and witch-hazels. His work integrates morphological, anatomical, chemical, and molecular data to unravel evolutionary patterns and diversification mechanisms.

Recent Research Trends: His publications emphasize intercontinental migrations, hybridization events in Taxus, and disjunct distribution dynamics in Stewartia and other genera. He employs phylogenomic and molecular approaches to address biogeographic and evolutionary questions.

Awards & Roles:

• Executive Committee Member, Michigan Consortium of Botanists
• Associate Editor, Journal of Systematics and Evolution
• Sargent Fellow (2015) and multiple grant awards (NSF, Space Grant, Lilac Society)

Grants & Advising: Dr. Li has secured significant research funding, including NSF grants and international collaborations. While no specific advisees are listed, his role as a faculty member implies student mentorship in plant biology.

Labs & Teams: Collaborates with institutions like the Arnold Arboretum and international teams on projects involving phylogenomics and biogeography.