Leyuan Zhou

Academic Interests

Economics, Mathematics, Global Health

Fun Fact

When I was ten, I trained myself to become ambidextrous!

I am a first-year student at Duke University interested in the intersection of economics and healthcare, with a focus on how policy and investment decisions can transform global health outcomes. My academic curiosity stems from research experiences, where I studied pediatric HIV vaccine responses. Engaging in projects like these sparked broader questions for me: how can scientific advances be translated into equitable access, and how can investments and policy frameworks shape who ultimately benefits?

Beyond research, I have pursued opportunities that connect knowledge to community impact. In high school, I organized a math enrichment camp for NYC public school students, where I learned how access to resources can influence long-term trajectories. At Duke, I am eager to engage in interdisciplinary work that bridges economics, global health, and public policy, and to apply quantitative analysis to pressing challenges such as health equity, resource allocation, and innovation in healthcare delivery.

Outside of academics, I love being creative — whether that's through soccer, music, or art. I enjoy taking long walks and am always excited about exploring new places (especially restaurants!) wherever I go. Since starting my freshman year at Duke, I've gotten involved in Club Soccer, Scale & Coin, and am currently enrolled in a global health-oriented FOCUS. These experiences have not only grounded me in community but also fueled my curiosity about the intersections of culture, health, and innovation.

Looking ahead, I hope to contribute to a career at the intersection of global health, economics, and policy — whether through shaping evidence-based investment strategies, designing scalable healthcare solutions, or helping develop international frameworks that promote equity. What excites me most is the possibility of combining rigorous analysis with a commitment to human connection, ensuring that advances in healthcare are not only innovative but also inclusive and impactful on a global scale.

What do you like about being a SPIRE Fellow?

As an incoming SPIRE Fellow, I am most excited about joining a community that values curiosity, interdisciplinary thinking, and collaboration. I see SPIRE as a space where I can explore my interests at the intersection of economics, healthcare, and global health policy, while also learning from peers whose passions span across disciplines. What excites me most is the opportunity to test ideas, ask big questions, and think about how policy and investment can shape equitable health outcomes worldwide.