Prof. ZHU Lin hold a PhD in Communication from the University of Maryland, specializing in intercultural communication, quantitative research methods, and negotiation. She also earned an MA in Communication from the University of Texas at Arlington and an MA in Linguistics from Beijing Foreign Studies University.

Her research focuses on cross-cultural communication, strategic authenticity in influencer marketing, and the impact of cultural dimensions on negotiation and conflict resolution. Her recent publications have appeared in Internet Research, International Journal of Advertising, Human Communication Research, and Communication Research.  

Before joining UIC, Prof. ZHU was an Associate Professor at the University of Massachusetts Boston. 

Throughout her career, she have explored topics such as sharenting in China, cultural adaptation in international contexts, the role of cultural values in conflict management, and digital authenticity. She have presented my work at international conferences, including those hosted by the National Communication Association and the International Communication Association.