معرفی
Prof. Dr. Kristin Shi-Kupfer is a Professor of Contemporary China Studies at the University of Trier, affiliated with the Faculty of Cultural and Social Sciences and the Sinology department. She is also a Senior Associate Fellow at the Mercator Institute for China Studies (MERICS), a leading think tank in Berlin. Her expertise spans contemporary Chinese politics, society, digital development, media policy, human rights, and religion.
- PhD in Sinology and Political Science from Ruhr University Bochum (2009)
- Studies at University of Trier, Fudan University, and Henan University (1994–2001)
- Former Head of Politics, Society and Media Research at MERICS (2013–2020)
- Former China Correspondent for Zeit online, epd, Profil (2007–2011)
Her research focuses on China’s digital transformation, including surveillance technology, AI ethics, platform economies, and state-society relations in the digital age. She investigates how digital tools are used for control and resistance, and how online discourse challenges ideological orthodoxy. Her work also explores social movements like the 'lying flat' phenomenon and the role of religion in modern China.
The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong trend in analyzing China’s digital authoritarianism, technological innovation, and ideological competition. Her articles span disciplines such as political science, media studies, sociology, and technology policy, with recurring subfields including digital surveillance, AI governance, social media control, and Sino-Western strategic rivalry. She frequently collaborates with institutions like MERICS and contributes to high-impact policy reports.
- Member, Sino-German Expert Group on Digital Business Models (German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy)
- Member, Just Peace Working Group, German Commission Justitia et Pax
- Mentor, University Mentoring Program, University of Trier
Prof. Shi-Kupfer has secured research funding from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for the China Spectrum project (2022–2023), which analyzes internal debates in China. She has not disclosed any grants related to lab infrastructure or large collaborative teams. She is actively involved in public discourse, frequently appearing in media such as ZDF, WDR, and SWR to discuss China’s foreign policy, digital rise, and geopolitical challenges.
