Lixing Sun

Lixing Sun is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Central Washington University, where he has served since 1996, progressing from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor and ultimately to Professor in 2006. His academic journey began with a BS in Biology from East China Normal University in 1986, followed by an MS in Biology/Animal Ecology from the same institution in 1989, and culminated with a Ph.D. in Zoology/Animal Behavior/Ecology from the State University of New York - College of Environmental Science and Forestry and Syracuse University in 1996.

Dr. Sun's educational background reflects a strong foundation in biological sciences with a focus on animal behavior and ecology. His academic path took him from Shanghai, China to the United States, where he completed his doctoral studies and postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Texas, Austin.

• 1996: Ph.D. Zoology/Animal Behavior/Ecology. State University of New York - College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF) & Syracuse University
• 1989: MS in Biology/Animal Ecology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
• 1986: BS in Biology (with honor), East China Normal University, Shanghai, China

Professor Sun's research spans multiple disciplines at the intersection of biology, behavior, and evolution. His primary interests include animal behavior (particularly primate behavior), chemical ecology, evolutionary biology, and the application of biological principles to understanding human social behavior. His work on Tibetan macaques has been particularly influential, examining social structures, decision-making processes, and communication within these primate groups. More recently, he has extended his research interests to explore connections between biological principles and economic behavior, as evidenced by his popular writings on behavioral economics and evolutionary perspectives on human decision-making.

Analysis of Professor Sun's recent publications reveals a strong focus on primate social behavior, particularly among Tibetan macaques. His research examines collective decision-making, social hierarchies, communication, and the evolutionary basis of social structures. There's a clear progression from more traditional zoological studies toward interdisciplinary work that bridges biology with social sciences, particularly economics. His publications in both scientific journals and popular media demonstrate his commitment to translating complex biological concepts for broader audiences.

Professor Sun has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing both his research and teaching excellence:

• Distinguished Professor (research), Central Washington University (2020)
• Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society Scholar of the Year Award (2016)
• Distinguished Oversea Chinese Scholar: Chinese Academy of the Sciences (2005)
• Central Washington University Students' Natural Helper (1998)
• Wilford A. Dence Award (SUNY) (1995)
• Alexander Wetland Research Award (SUNY) (1993)
• Excellence in Teaching Award (Zhejiang University) (1990)

Throughout his career, Professor Sun has maintained active involvement in multiple academic societies, including the Cultural Evolution Society, American Association for the Advancement of Science, Society for the Study of Evolution, and American Association for Science Writers. His extensive publication record spanning over two decades suggests successful funding for his research programs, though specific grant details aren't provided in the available text.

Professor Sun's research appears to be conducted both in the field, particularly at Mt. Huangshan in China where he studies Tibetan macaques, and in laboratory settings examining chemical communication in various species. His collaborative work with researchers from multiple institutions, including Chinese universities, indicates participation in international research teams focused on primatology and behavioral ecology.