Roehampton Law School - Researcher Spotlight - Senior Lecturer Dr Daoning Zhang

We catch up with one of Roehampton Law School's researchers, Senior Lecturer Daoning Zhang. Dr Zhang spoke to us about his research interests.

Could you tell us about your job and area of research at the Roehampton Law School?

Dr Zhang: As a researcher, I conduct self-managed and collaborative research. Applying for research funding and delivering presentations at conferences are also on a researcher's agenda. Therefore, a legal researcher should take the initiative, stay open-minded and be prepared to overcome challenges.

When and how did you become interested in pursuing a career in academia?

Dr Zhang: When I was a PhD student, I realised that conducting legal research was enjoyable. A good life and work balance and a career demanding constant innovation were what I valued the most. Though it was not easy to write a good paper, it is still achieveable if you put enough time and effort into your research.

Why did you choose to specialise in international commercial law?

Dr Zhang: I wanted to know how companies do business at the international level, so I chose to study international commercial law.

What impact has your research had?

Dr Zhang: Some of my papers have been published in leading journals and have attracted interest among scholars and those in practice. I believe that my work can be useful to anyone interested in the areas of my research.

Since you became a researcher, what kind of opportunities have you had?

Dr Zhang: My research enables me to build connections with other people and to learn from them.

What route did you take to get to your current position as a lecturer and researcher?

Dr Zhang: I started my journey as a research student.

What has been the biggest hurdle you have faced so far in your academic career?

Dr Zhang: I will say, learning and harnessing legal research methods.

What do you enjoy most about academic life?

Dr Zhang: A researcher's life is full of innovation and new ideas.

What have been your lowest career moments?

Dr Zhang: Sometimes, coming up with good research questions is a difficult task. Researchers need to believe that perseverance pays off.

Do you have any pieces of advice for current law students interested in international commercial law?

Dr Zhang: International commercial law has an international dimension. It is a lingua franca among businessmen and lawyers. However, private law may face challenges from the expansion of public law and changes brought by AI in the future. Therefore, legal researchers in this area should be prepared to update their knowledge frequently and also be prepared for new challenges.

Thank you so much for your time Dr Zhang.

Dr Daoning Zhang may be reached via - [email protected]