Before joining the department of accounting in Birmingham Business School, Li worked as a part-time teaching fellow and associate tutor in various accounting modules during his PhD at the University of Leicester School of Management. His PhD thesis investigates the role of professional accounting firms in climate change and sustainability in China.
Li has presented his works at several international conferences and doctoral colloquiums, especially for those regularly organised by CSEAR (Centre for Social and Environmental Accounting Research) and BAFA (British Accounting and Finance Association). Li was also a member of organising committee for the 2022 AAE (Alternative Accounts Europe) Conference.