Yuanyuan Li is a distinguished authority in water resources management with extensive experience in integrated water resources planning, water governance, water–human system interactions, and water ecology and environmental protection. Over the course of his career, he has led numerous nationwide water resources surveys, strategic studies, and major water infrastructure planning and design initiatives in China, while also contributing to international programmes and cooperation in the water sector.

Professor Li has played a significant role in advancing water resources policy formulation, regulation, and management. He has published extensively on water-related topics, including books and peer-reviewed papers, and his research contributions have been recognised through multiple national science and technology awards.

Closely engaged with the International Water Resources Association (IWRA) for nearly 30 years, Professor Li has been a strong supporter of IWRA’s mission to advance science-based solutions and policy dialogue for sustainable water resources management worldwide. He joined the IWRA Board in 2013 and has made substantial contributions to the Association’s strategic development and global engagement. He served as Vice President from 2019 to 2021 and as President from 2022 to 2024, and is re-elected President for the 2025-2027 term.