Female scientist blends empathy and ethics in algorithms

Li is also deeply aware of AI's social implications. "Try using an image-generation app to create a 'doctor' or 'CEO'," she says. "Most of the time, you'll get a man. But ask for a 'nurse' or 'teacher', and you'll likely get a woman. This reveals how biased the underlying data can be."

This, she argues, is why women's participation in AI development matters. "AI is data-driven and user-driven," she says. "Without women's experiences being part of that data, we can't build fair or empathetic systems. We need women not just as users, but as creators of AI."

Within her department, female professors support one another through informal mentoring, peer review of grant proposals, and mock interviews. The Women in Computing association brings together female students, postdocs and faculty to share experiences and invite successful alumni to inspire the next generation.

Li remains closely connected with China's fast-growing AI sector. Her twin sister leads an AI engineering team at ByteDance, and Li regularly exchanges ideas with scholars during visits home.

"In some applied areas, like fine-tuning image generation, China is leading," she says. "In fundamental innovation, Europe still has an edge in exploring bold ideas. The two can complement each other."

She recently spoke at the UK Women in AI Summit, organized by the China-Britain Artificial Intelligence Association. The forum called for women to overcome self-imposed barriers and expand their influence in academia and industry.

For Li, however, the mission goes beyond representation. "Developing AI that understands human needs and embodies empathy will require more women to participate," she says. "It's about building systems that are sustainable, socially responsible and diverse."