Overview
Background
Dr. Li has been making noteworthy strides as a Research Fellow at the University of Queensland since June 2023, demonstrating his broad expertise in environmental science. His current research endeavors are focused on soil organic carbon.
Dr. Li's research portfolio is a testament to his intellectual versatility and commitment. It encompasses a variety of critical environmental issues, ranging from sustainable livelihoods for pastoralists in grassland ecosystems to geospatial pattern analysis, grassland degradation management, soil organic carbon studies, and wood decay fungi and community ecology. He also excels in employing bibliometric/scientometric and machine learning analysis in ecological studies. With such a wide gamut of expertise, Dr. Li stands at the nexus of several environmental science disciplines, poised to make substantial contributions.
In recognition of his academic excellence, Dr. Li has earned prestigious accolades. He received the Chinese Government Award for Outstanding Self-financed Students Abroad in 2021, ranking him among the top 500 worldwide. The following year, he was distinguished with the President's Award for Excellence from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, positioning him in the top 400 recipients.
Availability
- Dr Tong Li is:
- Available for supervision
Fields of research
Qualifications
- Doctor of Philosophy, University of the Chinese Academy of Science
- Doctor of Philosophy, Griffith University
Research interests
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Low cost carbon stock estimation using proximal and remote sensing
One of my primary research interests lies in the integration of proximal and remote sensing technologies for cost-effective carbon stock estimation. Under the guidance of Dr. Yash, I am currently working on a national project that aims to utilize these cutting-edge techniques more accurately and efficiently measure carbon stocks. This project underscores my commitment to utilizing advanced remote sensing technology in ecological research, contributing to the broader goals of environmental sustainability and carbon management.
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Sustainable Grassland Management
Another focal point of my research revolves around sustainable grassland management, specifically addressing the issue of grassland degradation on the Tibetan Plateau. Through the integration of remote sensing data, statistical analysis, and questionnaire responses, I delve into the sustainable livelihoods of pastoralists in the heart of the Tibetan Plateau, the three-river headwater region. My research endeavors to systematically dissect spatial change characteristics and identify key influencing factors. The findings from this study hold immense potential to enhance the theoretical framework and practical applications of sustainable development management in pastoral areas. Hence, my research is not only academically stimulating but also carries significant implications for the betterment of sustainable practices within pastoral communities.
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The application of machine learning and artificial intelligence for soil ecology study
In my pursuit of uncovering trends in soil ecology, I harness the power of machine learning and artificial intelligence, amalgamating these advanced techniques with conventional scientometric tools. My expertise lies in conducting comprehensive analyses of the extensive body of soil/ecology literature. This approach allows me to effectively characterize emerging research trends, identify key thematic elements, and spotlight burgeoning hotspots of inquiry. Consequently, my work not only contributes to the advancement of the field but also aids fellow researchers in navigating the vast expanse of scholarly literature, thereby facilitating more targeted and impactful studies in soil ecology.
Research impacts
Dr. Li's research impact in the fields of ecology and sustainability science is both substantial and continually expanding. This is clearly demonstrated by his successful publication of approximately 30 peer-reviewed articles over the past five years. Remarkably, more than half of these scholarly contributions were led by Dr. Li as the first author, showcasing not only his commitment to propelling knowledge in these critical areas but also his leadership and project management abilities. His publications span a vast array of subjects, ranging from sustainable livelihoods for pastoralists in grassland ecosystems to bibliometric/scientometric analysis, each one enriching the academic community's comprehension of vital environmental challenges. Furthermore, his focused research on soil organic carbon, geospatial pattern analysis, grassland degradation management, and wood decay fungi and community ecology has furnished valuable insights and pragmatic solutions to pressing issues pertaining to ecological health and sustainable development. The influence of Dr. Li's research to date is significant, and he remains devoted to furthering these critical fields of study in his current role as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Queensland.
Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Dr. Li also plays a pivotal role in the academic community. He serves as a reviewer for numerous esteemed scientific journals, including Land Use Policy, Ecological Indicators, Journal of Soils and Sediments, Environment Science and Pollution Research, and Environmental Science and Ecotechnology. Additionally, he is making strides as a youth Editorial Board Member for the Journal of Integrative Agriculture and Watershed Ecology and Environment, highlighting his professional engagement and leadership in the field.
Works
Search Professor Tong Li’s works on UQ eSpace
2027
Journal Article
The heat shock transcription factor MdHSFB3b mediates heat shock–induced inhibition of ethylene biosynthesis in postharvest apple fruit
Sun, Bowen, Wang, Yuqing, Yang, Guangxin, Sun, Le, Wang, Yingda, Wang, Aide and Li, Tong (2027). The heat shock transcription factor MdHSFB3b mediates heat shock–induced inhibition of ethylene biosynthesis in postharvest apple fruit. Postharvest Biology and Technology, 243 114673, 114673-243. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2026.114673
2026
Journal Article
Modeling preferential flow and deep drainage in a long-term furrow-irrigated cotton–wheat rotation on a shrink–swell clay soil in semi-arid Australia
Chen, Rui, Ringrose-Voase, Anthony J., Nadelko, Anthony J., Bogunović, Igor, Filipović, Lana, Phogat, Vinod, He, Hailong, Bell, Michael J., Li, Tong, Tang, Chaosheng, Wang, Zhenhua and Filipović, Vilim (2026). Modeling preferential flow and deep drainage in a long-term furrow-irrigated cotton–wheat rotation on a shrink–swell clay soil in semi-arid Australia. Catena, 273. doi: 10.1016/j.catena.2026.110447
2026
Journal Article
Associations of climate, soil resources, and species-level plant traits with ecosystem productivity across aridity gradients in China
Yu, Mengyao, Wang, Jingwen, Pu, Yu, Zhang, Yuhang, Sun, Meng, Wu, Jinran, Yang, Yishu, Li, Tong, Gao, Jie and Pandey, Rajiv (2026). Associations of climate, soil resources, and species-level plant traits with ecosystem productivity across aridity gradients in China. Ecological Informatics, 99 104082. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2026.104082
2026
Journal Article
Potential ecological risks of the novel alternative plasticizer di(isononyl)cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate via metabolic toxification in earthworms
Fan, Xiuli, Gu, Chenggang, Gao, Zhengyuan, Wang, Zunyao, Li, Tong, Martinez-Espinosa, Rosa Maria, Chen, Hong, Yang, Xinglun, Ye, Mao and Jiang, Xin (2026). Potential ecological risks of the novel alternative plasticizer di(isononyl)cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate via metabolic toxification in earthworms. Environmental Science and Technology, 60 (40), 28297-28311. doi: 10.1021/acs.est.6c02959
2026
Journal Article
Patterns and determinants of the glomalin-related soil protein accrual at rock-soil interfaces across two lithologies in karst forests, Southwest China
Ling, Qiumei, Wu, Hanqing, Xie, Lei, Hu, Songjiang, Li, Tong, Dalal, Ram A M, Kyriazopoulos, Apostolos, Li, Shenglong, Wan, Wei, Hu, Peilei, Xiao, Jun, Du, Hu, Zhao, Jie, Chen, Hongsong, Wang, Kelin and Zhang, Wei (2026). Patterns and determinants of the glomalin-related soil protein accrual at rock-soil interfaces across two lithologies in karst forests, Southwest China. Journal Of Plant Ecology rtag202. doi: 10.1093/jpe/rtag202
2026
Journal Article
A global synthesis of spectroscopy-based prediction accuracy for soil carbon fractions: a systematic review
Ding, Sicheng, Xu, Yi, Agathokleous, Evgenios, Li, Tong, Zheng, Haifeng and Feng, Zhaozhong (2026). A global synthesis of spectroscopy-based prediction accuracy for soil carbon fractions: a systematic review. Soil and Tillage Research, 262 107242, 1-10. doi: 10.1016/j.still.2026.107242
2026
Journal Article
A novel CsRNF‐CsHSF24‐ <i>CsF3′5′H2</i> module regulates epigallocatechin gallate biosynthesis in <i>Camellia sinensis</i>
Yao, Xinzhuan, Chen, Hufang, An, Haili, Hu, Yilan, Li, Tong, Zhao, Qi, He, Tengxian, Luo, Chao, Zeng, Xiaofang and Lu, Litang (2026). A novel CsRNF‐CsHSF24‐ CsF3′5′H2 module regulates epigallocatechin gallate biosynthesis in Camellia sinensis. The Plant Journal, 128 (1) e71155. doi: 10.1111/tpj.71155
2026
Journal Article
Mid-infrared spectroscopy for soil organic carbon estimation. Part II: evaluating preprocessing at global and national scales
Li, Tong, Beniwal, Deeksha, Dalal, Ram C., Manning, Sean, Fu, Peng, Xia, Anquan, Wu, Jinran, Liu, Qingyang, Filipović, Vilim, Tsiminis, Georgios and Dang, Yash P. (2026). Mid-infrared spectroscopy for soil organic carbon estimation. Part II: evaluating preprocessing at global and national scales. Soil and Tillage Research, 262 107237. doi: 10.1016/j.still.2026.107237
2026
Journal Article
Mapping soil organic carbon research in conservation agriculture: a systematic review
Liu, Qingyang, Tian, Xin, Dalal, Ram C., Wu, Jinran, Xia, Anquan, Wu, Xiaoxuan, Li, Tong, McLachlan, Geoffrey J., Chapman, Scott and Dang, Yash P. (2026). Mapping soil organic carbon research in conservation agriculture: a systematic review. Farming System, 4 (4) 100241, 1-11. doi: 10.1016/j.farsys.2026.100241
2026
Journal Article
Mid-Infrared spectroscopy for soil organic carbon estimation. Part I: Global review and meta-analysis
Li, Tong, Xia, Anquan, Dalal, Ram C., Manning, Sean, Beniwal, Deeksha, Xu, Zhihong, Pandey, Rajiv, Cui, Lizhen, Chen, Songchao, Fu, Peng, Xia, Yushu, Wu, Jinran, Wang, Yanfen and Dang, Yash P. (2026). Mid-Infrared spectroscopy for soil organic carbon estimation. Part I: Global review and meta-analysis. Soil and Tillage Research, 262 107236, 1-14. doi: 10.1016/j.still.2026.107236
2026
Journal Article
Distinguishing knowledge mapping from biophysical evidence: A Rejoinder to "Comment on 'Mapping Soil Organic Carbon Research in Conservation Agriculture'"
Liu, Qingyang, Tian, Xin, Dalal, Ram C., Wu, Jinran, Xia, Anquan, Wu, Xiaoxuan, Li, Tong, McLachlan, Geoffrey J., Chapman, Scott and Dang, Yash P. (2026). Distinguishing knowledge mapping from biophysical evidence: A Rejoinder to "Comment on 'Mapping Soil Organic Carbon Research in Conservation Agriculture'". Farming System, 4 (4) 100255, 1-4. doi: 10.1016/j.farsys.2026.100255
2026
Journal Article
Eco-efficiency analysis of China’s eight comprehensive economic zones: evidence from a two-stage NSBM approach
Li, Shanru, Xu, Xu, Xu, Wensi, Qu, Haocheng, Xu, Xinrui, Zhang, Yixiang, Ni, Qing-He, Li, Tong, Wu, Jinran and Wang, You-Gan (2026). Eco-efficiency analysis of China’s eight comprehensive economic zones: evidence from a two-stage NSBM approach. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C, 144 (Part 1) 104455, 1-18. doi: 10.1016/j.pce.2026.104455
2026
Journal Article
A novel cross-kingdom regulatory mode of thermostable miR166 from Taraxacum mongolicum inhibits HepG2 cell proliferation in association with downregulation of the candidate target STAP2
Yan, Danli, Wu, Junrui, Shi, Lin, Li, Tong, Li, Xinyu, Wang, Yuxin, Alnemari, Ibtisam Humaidan, Li, Hui, Zang, Jian and Wu, Rina (2026). A Novel Cross-Kingdom Regulatory Mode of Thermostable miR166 from Taraxacum mongolicum Inhibits HepG2 Cell Proliferation in Association with Downregulation of the Candidate Target STAP2. Foods, 15 (19), 3470. doi: 10.3390/foods15193470
2026
Journal Article
Unraveling soil erosion dynamics on the Tibetan Plateau (2000-2025): Scientific foundations for zoned conservation policies
Shang, Baijun, Xu, Zhihong, Li, Tong, Gao, Hui, Wang, Feng, Zhou, Zhibin and Fu, Tonggang (2026). Unraveling soil erosion dynamics on the Tibetan Plateau (2000-2025): Scientific foundations for zoned conservation policies. Journal of Soils and Sediments, 26 (10) 365, 1-14. doi: 10.1007/s11368-026-04568-3
2026
Journal Article
Forest vapor pressure deficit sensitivity: a potential indicator of soil carbon stability under atmospheric drying
Xia, Anquan, Wei, Xiang, Cheng, Ma, Xu, Zhihong and Li, Tong (2026). Forest vapor pressure deficit sensitivity: a potential indicator of soil carbon stability under atmospheric drying. Land Degradation and Development ldr.70907. doi: 10.1002/ldr.70907
2026
Journal Article
RCNet: real–complex fusion for PolSAR land cover classification
Zhang, Shuaiying, Dong, Zhen, Lin, Huadong, Gao, Yucheng, Li, Tong, Wu, Jinran, Wang, Youjun, Fu, Peng, Fava, Francesco Pietro, An, Wentao and Camps-Valls, Gustau (2026). RCNet: real–complex fusion for PolSAR land cover classification. IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, 1-17. doi: 10.1109/jstars.2026.3729201
2026
Journal Article
Fungal necromass dominates soil organic carbon accrual after decadal active restoration of alpine grassland
Zhou, Shijie, Gong, Jinchao, Fan, Keqi, Degen, Abraham Allan, Wu, Jingjing, Lin, Xiongkui, Kausar, Tahmina, Xiu, Yue, Li, Linlin, Tie, Liang, Yang, Ziwei, Ma, Congyu, Smith, Pete, Filimonenko, Ekaterina, Kuzyakov, Yakov, Shang, Zhanhuan, Dalal, Ram, Li, Tong and Bai, Yanfu (2026). Fungal necromass dominates soil organic carbon accrual after decadal active restoration of alpine grassland. Journal of Environmental Management, 416 130765, 130765-130765. doi: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.130765
2026
Journal Article
Foundation Models for Soil Organic Carbon: Evidence, Process Integration and Future Directions
Cheng, Yingxuan, Wu, Jinran, Tian, Xin, Li, Yayong, Fang, Jiaohui and Li, Tong (2026). Foundation Models for Soil Organic Carbon: Evidence, Process Integration and Future Directions. Ecological Frontiers, 47. doi: 10.3724/j.ecofro-20260220
2026
Journal Article
Beyond carbon measurement: turning agricultural carbon into credible climate action
Li, Tong, Tian, Xin, Dalal, Ram C., Kyriazopoulos, Apostolos, Sharififar, Amin, Xia, Anquan, Pandey, Rajiv, Fu, Peng, Bolan, Nanthi, Wu, Jinran, McLachlan, Geoffrey J., Choi, Woo-Jung, Xu, Zhihong, Wang, Yanfen, Fu, Bojie, Filipović, Vilim, Chapman, Scott, Dang, Yash P. and Camps-Valls, Gustau (2026). Beyond carbon measurement: turning agricultural carbon into credible climate action. The Innovation, 7 (9) 101531, 1-2. doi: 10.1016/j.xinn.2026.101531
2026
Journal Article
AI for science: progress, challenges, and perspectives
Xu, Yongjun, Shao, Zezhi, Liu, Xin, Li, Yuquan, An, Zhulin, Fu, Chenguang, Huang, Changping, Zhang, Lin, Gao, Feng, Li, Jian, Li, Yuyang, Yao, Fanglong, Xia, Anquan, Chen, Kaihua, Zheng, Xiaolong, Yang, Chuanguang, Huang, Libo, Dong, Fengliang, Yao, Shanliang, Zhang, Zhao, Wang, Jue, Wang, Qi, Wang, Yuanzhuo, Li, Haisheng, Xiao, Nachuan, Wang, Yuyang, Feng, Guoshuang, Lai, Puxiang, Song, Yuxuan ... Zhang, Jiabao (2026). AI for science: progress, challenges, and perspectives. The Innovation 101530, 101530. doi: 10.1016/j.xinn.2026.101530
Supervision
Availability
- Dr Tong Li is:
- Available for supervision
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Supervision history
Current supervision
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Doctor Philosophy
An integrated, interpretable, and cost-effective framework for soil organic carbon prediction and mapping across Queensland and New South Wales
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Yash Dang, Professor Geoffrey McLachlan
Media
Enquiries
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