Jing Sun

Focused on real-world applications of historical research, Jing Sun is a Ph.D. candidate in the History Department at the University of Pennsylvania, where they delve into the intricate tapestry of modern Japan, East Asia, and world history. Sun's scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the intersections of nutrition, the history of medicine, food, warfare, empire, and global Asia, reflecting a broad and interdisciplinary approach to historical inquiry. Jing Sun's dissertation, "Eating by Numbers: Nutrition, Health and the Political Economy of Food in Modern Japan, 1880-1952," is a testament to their commitment to understanding the socio-political dimensions of dietary practices. This work meticulously explores the evolution of quantitative dietary standards and their profound influence on food and health policy in Japan during a transformative period. Through this research, Sun aims to shed light on how nutritional science and policy were interwoven with broader political and economic currents in modern Japan. In addition to their research, Sun contributes to the academic community as a writer for Synapsis: A Health Humanities Journal, where they have published insightful articles that bridge the gap between history and health humanities. Their writings often reflect a nuanced understanding of how historical narratives can inform contemporary health and nutrition debates. Sun's pedagogical contributions are equally noteworthy. As an adjunct professor and teaching fellow at the University of Pennsylvania, they have taught a diverse array of courses, including modern Japanese history, modern Chinese history, US international history, and world history. Their teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of connecting historical events to present-day issues, encouraging students to critically engage with the past to better understand the complexities of the modern world. Through their multifaceted research and teaching endeavors, Jing Sun continues to illuminate the intricate connections between history, health, and society, fostering a deeper understanding of the global historical processes that shape our world today. Their work not only enriches the academic discourse but also offers valuable insights into the real-world implications of historical scholarship.