P.S. This map marks where I come from: Beijing.
About Xiaoai
Hi! I’m Xiaoai (Rachel)Lin, a researcher studying how biology, psychology, and real-world design intersect, revealing how systems of life and systems of thought reflect one another.
My current work bridges microbial metabolism, cognition, and interaction, using experimental and computational methods to study how perception and emotion evolve through technology. I completed dual degrees in Biology and Psychology at Clark University, conducting research in fungal metabolism, child cognition, and visual perception.
Looking ahead, I aim to move from foundational research toward applied work, translating insights about cognition and life systems into human-centered and ecological applications.
I aim to continue building interfaces between the biological, the psychological, and the designed, crafting research that makes cognition visible and life processes tangible.
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My research mainly investigates adaptation across biological, cognitive, and social systems, from studying siderophore gene expression in Basidiobolus fungi and gaze behavior in AI-art perception to examining children’s executive functioning under environmental instability.
I also conducted qualitative work on international students’ acculturation and LGBTQ+ campus support systems, using thematic and phenomenological analyses to understand how education, emotion, and identity interact across cultural contexts.
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I aim to connect emotion, decision-making, and learning through an interdisciplinary approach integrating psychology, cognitive science, and design.
Ultimately, I hope to create interactive systems that measure and enhance human learning and emotional adaptability, translating scientific insights into practical, human-centered applications that foster well-being and human–environment connection.
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Outside of research, I’m endlessly curious about the world.
I love singing and audio production, often recording and editing songs or creating AI cover videos. I enjoy reading and writing, as well as physical activities like skiing, tennis, and fencing, which keep me grounded and focused.
I also love traveling and photography, especially exploring the art of post-production and visual storytelling. My more unconventional interests include mixology and culinary experimentation, I enjoy studying the chemistry and creativity behind flavors.
In short, I’m fascinated by how art, science, and experience intertwine, and I’m always eager to explore something new:))