Mei‑Ling Zhao, PhD

Dr. Mei‑Ling Zhao is a leading researcher and educator in the field of Love & Attraction, combining psychology, neuroscience, and sociocultural studies. With over 12 years of experience, she has designed, executed, and published cutting-edge research exploring the dynamics of romantic attachment, attraction patterns, and relationship satisfaction across diverse populations. Her work bridges academic research with practical guidance, helping individuals and couples improve emotional connection and intimacy.

Specialization

Romantic Relationship Psychology
Attraction and Mate Selection
Attachment Theory and Relationship Dynamics
Cross-cultural Studies of Love
Behavioral and Social Neuroscience of Intimacy

Education

2006–2010: BA in Psychology, Peking University
2010–2012: MSc in Social Psychology, University of Hong Kong
2012–2016: PhD in Relationship Science, University of California, Berkeley

Professional Experience

2016–2018: Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Center for Relationship Studies, UC Berkeley
2018–2022: Assistant Professor of Psychology, National University of Singapore
2022–Present: Senior Researcher & Consultant, Global Intimacy Project
Consultant for international dating and relationship platforms on behavioral science integration

Selected Research Cases & Projects

Case Study: "Digital Dating Dynamics" (2020) – Led a multi-country study (USA, Singapore, Germany) analyzing 50,000 user interactions on dating apps to identify factors predicting long-term relationship success. Key finding: couples with shared humor and similar attachment styles had a 72% higher likelihood of continuing a relationship beyond 12 months.
Project: "Cross-Cultural Romantic Attachment" (2018–2021) – Examined attachment patterns in 8 countries, revealing cultural differences in expressing affection and conflict resolution. Resulted in practical guidelines adopted by NGOs promoting healthy relationships.
Study: "Neural Correlates of Attraction" (2017) – Conducted fMRI studies to identify brain regions activated during romantic attraction, showing consistent activation in the ventral striatum and prefrontal cortex among participants across ages 18–35.

Notable Quotes from Research

"Understanding the subtle cues of attraction allows us to foster deeper emotional connections and promote healthier relationship dynamics." – Zhao, M., 2021

"Attachment styles are predictive not just of relationship satisfaction, but also of conflict management and long-term commitment." – Zhao & Lim, 2019

Selected Scientific Publications

Zhao, M., Lim, J. (2021). "Predictors of Relationship Longevity in Digital Dating Platforms." Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 38(5), 1203–1224.
Zhao, M., Tan, H. (2020). "Cross-Cultural Differences in Romantic Attachment." International Journal of Relationship Research, 12(3), 45–67.
Zhao, M. (2018). "Neural Mechanisms Underlying Romantic Attraction." Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 12, 104.

Professional Memberships

Society for Personality and Social Psychology (SPSP)
International Association for Relationship Research (IARR)
European Association of Social Psychology (EASP)

Work on Educational Programs

Developed workshops on "Healthy Romantic Relationships" for university students in Asia and North America
Created online modules for couples focusing on attachment-based communication skills
Trained educators and counselors on evidence-based practices in love & attraction education

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on NPR: "The Science of Love and Attraction"
TEDx Singapore Talk: "Decoding Attraction: Science Meets Heart" (2022)
Regular contributor to the podcast "Modern Relationships Lab"

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Zhao integrates cross-cultural insights, neuroscience, and social psychology to provide nuanced understanding of love and attraction. Her research-driven approach offers practical solutions for real-world relationship challenges, making her a trusted authority for both academic and public audiences.