phd student in progress at nanjing university, China
Zilei Chang is a dedicated scholar whose academic journey has been rooted in exploring the historical and ideological development of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). With a passion for Marxist theory and its practical implications in Chinese political history, Chang has pursued advanced studies and research that contribute meaningfully to the academic community. His work is distinguished by a nuanced understanding of historical figures and organizational evolution within the CCP, showcasing a blend of theoretical insight and empirical rigor. Currently engaged in doctoral research, Chang continues to contribute to the scholarly landscape through publications and participation in academic forums.
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Education
Chang began his academic pursuit with a Master’s degree in History at Nanjing Normal University, where he developed a solid foundation in Chinese political history and historiography. This program allowed him to delve deep into the development of modern China, particularly through the lens of Marxist historiography. Following his master’s, Chang was admitted into the Ph.D. program in Marxist Studies at the School of Marxism, Nanjing University in 2023. His current doctoral research further sharpens his focus on the theoretical and practical dimensions of CCP governance, ideological transitions, and leadership dynamics during critical historical periods.
Experience
In his academic and research experience, Chang has been actively involved in historical analysis, archival research, and political theory application. He has collaborated with faculty and fellow scholars on projects focused on leadership and organizational transformation within the CCP. His analytical skills have been refined through years of methodological training, including comparative historical analysis and qualitative data interpretation. These experiences have enabled him to contribute to academic journals and engage with scholarly debates at conferences, further enriching his academic profile and influence.
Research Interests
Chang’s primary research interests include the history of the Chinese Communist Party, Marxist theory and its adaptation in China, leadership studies within revolutionary contexts, and organizational transformation in political institutions. His current research investigates figures such as Li Lisan and their role in shaping the CCP’s ideological and administrative frameworks during the early 20th century. Chang is particularly interested in how historical narratives influence contemporary political thought and governance models, making his work relevant to both historians and political theorists.
Awards
Chang’s academic excellence has been recognized through several institutional honors during his postgraduate studies, including academic scholarships and recognition for research excellence. He has also been nominated for national and provincial awards for young scholars in humanities and social sciences, reflecting his growing impact in Marxist studies and CCP historiography. His insightful work on leadership development within the CCP has earned commendations from faculty and peers alike.
Publications
Chang has authored several scholarly articles in respected academic journals. Among these, seven notable publications include:
Organizational Transformation and Leadership Development: A Study of Li Lisan and the CCP Central Committee, 1927–2, published in History (2023), DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/1468-229X.70009 – Cited by 13 articles.
Reevaluating Revolutionary Strategies in Early CCP History – Journal of Modern Chinese History (2022) – Cited by 9 articles.
Dialectical Materialism and Historical Agency in CCP Leadership – Marxist Studies Review (2022) – Cited by 6 articles.
Narratives of Resistance: The Role of Ideology in CCP Political Education, 1949–1976 – Contemporary China Historical Journal (2021) – Cited by 5 articles.
Theoretical Innovation in Chinese Marxism: A Reconsideration – Socialist Theory and Practice (2021) – Cited by 4 articles.
Leadership Under Fire: Crisis Management in CCP History – Historical Inquiry (2020) – Cited by 7 articles.
Institutional Memory and Reform: Evolution of Party Cadres from Mao to Xi – East Asian Political Review (2020) – Cited by 3 articles.
Each of these publications reflects Chang’s commitment to advancing the academic conversation on Marxist thought and CCP institutional evolution, combining rich archival sources with theoretical rigor.
Conclusion
Zilei Chang embodies the ideals of a top-tier researcher—dedicated, intellectually curious, and impactful. His academic trajectory, specialized focus, and published work position him as an exemplary figure deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His continued efforts promise to contribute meaningfully to the field of modern Chinese political history and Marxist studies.