معرفی
Dr. Yichen Rao serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Cultural Anthropology at Utrecht University's Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, where his work intersects with university-wide initiatives including Dynamics of Youth, Game Research, and Governing the Digital Society.
His educational background includes:
- Ph.D. in Anthropology and Science and Technology Studies, The University of Hong Kong
Rao's research critically examines digital techno-fetishism through ethnographic fieldwork on youth internet addiction treatment camps, fintech Ponzi schemes, and China's data infrastructure influence on global cryptocurrency markets. Current projects investigate "pig-butchering" digital scams across cultural boundaries, while prior work analyzed Animal Crossing's pandemic-era cultural significance and embodied digital experiences during global health crises. His scholarship bridges digital anthropology with urgent societal challenges in fintech and online deception.
His recognition includes:
- Schneider Prize Honorable Mention from the Society for Economic Anthropology (American Anthropological Association)
Rao actively shapes academic discourse as council member of the Society for Social Studies of Science (4S) through 2027 and board member of Sci-Tech Asia. His professional service spans journal reviewing for Economic Anthropology and Ethnos, workshop leadership in comparative youth mental health, and research consultancy with organizations including ReD Associates and the International Psychotherapy Institute.
