Joy Y. Zhang

Professor Joy Y. Zhang is a British sociologist and medical doctor specializing in global science governance, epistemic justice, and the sociology of risk. She holds the position of Professor of Sociology and Founding Director of the Centre for Global Science and Epistemic Justice at the University of Kent. Previously affiliated with institutions like LSE and EHESS (Paris), her work bridges sociology, science policy, and global development. She has advised bodies such as the Royal Society and China’s National Health Commission, and her research emphasizes decolonizing knowledge systems and advancing science diplomacy.

Education:

• PhD in Sociology, London School of Economics (2010)
• MSc in Sociology, LSE (2006)
• Medical Degree from Peking University Health Science Centre

Research Focus: Explores transnational governance of emerging sciences, epistemic justice, and the rise of Global South actors. Key themes include science diplomacy, citizen science, and environmental politics. Her work challenges Western-centric frameworks, advocating for inclusive global governance models.

Grants & Recognition: Secured funding from British Academy, Wellcome Trust, ESRC, and others. Member of prestigious networks like the Human Practices Committee of iGEM and UNESCO’s Inclusive Policy Lab. Noted for integrating art into sociological inquiry, including solo photo exhibitions on bioethical themes.

Labs & Initiatives: Leads the Centre for Global Science and Epistemic Justice and co-founded the BioGovernance Commons (UK-China-US collaboration). Her work on ‘genomic solidarity’ and ethical science governance has influenced policy frameworks globally.