About
Yuan Li’s work bridges human–computer interaction, information science, and emerging questions around human–AI collaboration. She is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the School of Library and Information Studies at the University of Alabama, where she has served on the faculty since August 2023.
Dr. Li earned her Ph.D. in Information Science from the School of Information and Library Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research focuses on the intersection of Human–Computer and Human–AI Interaction, User Experience Design and Evaluation, and Interactive Information Retrieval.
Her work examines how contextual factors shape users’ cognitive processes and task activities when interacting with information systems such as search engines and generative AI. Through this research, Dr. Li designs and develops novel information assistant tools aimed at enhancing users’ learning performance and supporting effective task completion in everyday work and life.
Impact Beyond the University
By integrating research on human cognition, system design, and AI-enabled information tools, Dr. Li’s scholarship contributes to the development of more intuitive, effective, and human-centered information systems. Her work advances understanding of how generative AI and interactive retrieval systems can be designed to better support users across diverse contexts.
A Commitment to Human-Centered AI and Information Systems Education
In her teaching and research, Dr. Li emphasizes human-centered design principles and evidence-based evaluation of information technologies. Her research areas include Human–AI Interaction, Interactive Information Retrieval, User Experience Design and Evaluation, and Human–Computer Interaction, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with advanced information systems and emerging AI technologies.