Yuan Lai is currently a PhD student in Urban Systems Engineering at New York University. He has a master’s in Urban Informatics from NYU Center for Urban Science and Progress (CUSP). His research focuses on a combination of data analytics, urban systems and civic technology.
Yuan also holds a master's degree in Urban Planning at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York with dual-specializations in urban design and GIS, and a bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture and a minor in Law from Beijing Forestry University. Yuan is an accredited professional of Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design specialized in Neighborhood Development by U.S. Green Building Council.