Yu Lizhong

Yu Lizhong (; born September 14, 1949) was the first chancellor of New York University Shanghai, and held this position from 2012 to 2020. He was awarded the title of chancellor emeritus of NYU Shanghai upon his retirement.

Education Yu received his undergraduate degree in Geography from East China Normal University (ECNU) and his Ph.D. in Geography from the University of Liverpool. He also holds honorary doctorates from École Normale Supérieure and the University of Liverpool.

Research and leadership Yu's research focuses on environmental processes, environmental change, and sustainable development. He has published over 150 refereed papers in major journals, and has served on the boards of multiple educational, environmental, and scientific organizations throughout China. Yu served in several administrative capacities throughout his career at ECNU. Under his leadership, the ECNU embarked upon a path of growth and internationalization.