Sarah Lee

Sarah Lee is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Baylor University's College of Arts & Sciences. Her research focuses on religion and politics in authoritarian regimes, particularly China's treatment of Protestant churches. She holds a PhD and MA from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MA from Peking University.

Education:

• Ph.D., Political Science, UC Berkeley (2022)
• M.A., Political Science, UC Berkeley (2016)
• M.A., International Relations, Peking University (2014)
• B.A., Government, Dartmouth College (2010)

Research Interests:
Examines how authoritarian states manage religious communities, focusing on China’s selective repression of Protestant churches. Uses mixed-methodologies including fieldwork in 15 Chinese cities, interviews with pastors, and text analysis of sermons. Key themes include civil society dynamics, policy implementation, and adaptive strategies of religious groups under repression.

Awards:

• National Science Foundation Grant (2018-2019)
• Global Religion Research Initiative Fellowship (2020-2021)
• China Scholarship Council Fellowship (2012-2014)

Teaching & Service:
Teaches Comparative Government and International Relations at Baylor. Previously served as a Graduate Student Instructor at UC Berkeley. Professional service includes reviewing for Politics and Religion, and organizing academic workshops.