The Society for Social Studies of Science Student Section (6S) exists to facilitate interactions among students and junior scholars of science studies, and to promote the interests of students within 4S. 6S is coordinated by three student representatives who serve staggered three year terms.
Zhaopeng Li is a PhD candidate at the School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Fudan University. His research areas encompass S&T diplomacy, interdisciplinary science and policy evaluation. Specifically, his doctoral research focuses on the impact of deteriorating Sino - US relations on bilateral science, technology, and innovation. Combining scientometrics and public policy evaluation methods, the dissertation analyzes the intricately intertwined relationship among science, politics and diplomacy. Prior to the doctoral stage, Zhaopeng was among the very first batch of outstanding undergraduates selected into Elite Ph.D. Program of Fudan University initiated in 2020. And he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Fudan University in 2021.
Upali Bhattarcharya is a Doctoral Candidate in the Department of Sociology at Virginia Tech, focusing on the intersection of education technology and social inequality, particularly in the context of India. Her dissertation explores the complexities of Ed-Tech adoption and its impact on students and teachers in New Delhi. Having recently completed her fieldwork, Upali is now in the data analysis stage of her research. Throughout her academic journey, Upali has demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching, with experience in courses such as introductory sociology, women’s and gender studies, and sociological theory. Her approach emphasizes creating inclusive and engaging learning environments. Prior to her doctoral studies, Upali worked in the social impact and development sector in India, contributing to higher education policy and education technology initiatives.
Upali holds a Master of Arts in Sociology from the Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi. Her professional experience also includes roles such as Program Management and Student Outreach Consultant at the University of Chicago Center in Delhi, where she managed educational programs and outreach strategies. Additionally, she has been involved in policy consulting for the Leadership for Academicians Program at Tata Institute of Social Sciences, focusing on higher education policy development. Her research interests span across sociology of education, digital technologies, social inequality, women’s and gender studies, and political sociology.
Vivian Giang is a researcher, educator and communicator, and a National Geographic Explorer passionate about engaging with people and communities. She is an assistant professor of communications for the Faculty of Fine Arts & Communications at MacEwan University in Edmonton, Canada, and is pursuing interdisciplinary doctoral studies in anthropology and engineering through the University of Alberta’s Future Energy Systems research initiative. Her doctoral research aims to inform and develop equitable community engagement processes and communication frameworks for approaching renewable energy development responsibly and sustainably while respecting Indigenous rights. Her studies have been supported by Canada Graduate Scholarships from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and she completed her Fulbright Scholarship at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. Vivian's involvement with the National Geographic Society includes funded projects “New approaches to communities, communication and consultation on geothermal energy development on Indigenous lands” (2022) and “The Red Road to Black Hills” (2025). She also participated in the Explorer–Educator Exchange program in 2024 to develop learning solutions for elementary-aged youth to explore their relationship with water and how water contributes to quality of life. Through encouraging herself and others to explore through research, education and storytelling, Vivian aims to increase the interconnections between people, human histories and cultures and the natural world.
While the 6S representatives are elected positions, there is also an opportunity to serve the 4S community through a volunteer role as a 6S Engagement Liaison. There is no limit to the number of liaisons but the liaison positions are reviewed and renewed annually at the time of the annual 4S meeting.
Description of Role
As a 6S Engagement Liaison, you may:
If you would like to serve as a 6S Engagement Liaison, please email 6srepresentatives[at]gmail[dot]com.