Bingyun Li, a professor in the Department of Orthopaedics in the School of Medicine, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Award for Distinction in Graduate Research Mentoring.
The award was developed by the Office of Graduate Education and Life during the 2018-19 academic year to honor faculty who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to mentoring graduate students.
Li is recognized for his “whole person” approach to helping graduate students succeed and his unique mentoring style that balances guidance and independence.
He is described as approachable, patient, knowledgeable and collaborative, guiding students through a step-by-step mentoring approach that starts with the development of their research ideas and extends beyond graduation, connecting them to scholarly activities, a robust network, and professional development and career opportunities.
Colleagues of Li say he integrates scientific rigor with genuine human investment, encouraging his students to excel in the lab setting while also maintaining work-life balance.
A current student highlighted Li’s “profound impact” on their development as a researcher, citing his creation of a positive and inclusive learning environment. The student also emphasized Li’s dedication, professionalism and empathy, describing him as both a mentor and a role model.
“Dr. Li inspires a passion for research and learning that is truly contagious. He has created a lasting legacy of mentorship that will continue to benefit students for years to come,” the student said.
Throughout his 21-year tenure at WVU, Li has mentored 132 trainees, including graduate, undergraduate, medical students and more, published over 100 peer-reviewed papers, edited four books, authored 11 book chapters, filed 26 patent disclosures and secured over $20 million in extramural funding as PI and Co-PI.
He has also been inducted as a fellow into three prestigious, international scientific societies: the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (2018), International Combined Orthopaedic Research Societies (2025) and Orthopaedic Research Society (March 2026).
But for Li, mentorship and the success of his students remains at the forefront of his focus. His students have received local, national and international predoctoral fellowships, earned national recognition for their presentations and peer-reviewed publications and secured prominent positions globally after graduation.
“Mentorship has long been a central commitment of my academic career,” Li said. “From the first day students join my research group, I strive to cultivate their development as rigorous, critical-thinking and independent scholars while supporting their professional growth and personal well-being.”
“Witnessing their achievements both during their time at WVU and throughout their careers is the most meaningful measure of success. It is truly an honor to receive this Mentoring Award. I am deeply grateful to my students for their dedication and trust, which makes this recognition especially meaningful,” he added.
The Distinction in Graduate Research Mentoring Award is awarded annually and requires a nomination from current or former graduate students, faculty or staff. Finalists are selected from the following Benedum categories: Physical Sciences and Technology, Behavioral and Social Sciences, Biosciences and Health Sciences, and Humanities and the Arts, and are judged on 12 criteria for what makes an excellent mentor.
The 2026 finalists and semi-finalists included:
• Chris Scheitle, finalist, Behavioral and Social Sciences, Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
• Shikha Sharma, finalist, Physical Sciences and Technology, Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
• Stanley Hileman, semi-finalist, Biosciences and Health Sciences, School of Medicine
• Jenn Monnin, semi-finalist, Biosciences and Health Sciences, Health Sciences Center
• Levan Elbakidze, semi-finalist, Behavioral and Social Sciences, Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Li will receive a $2,500 honorarium and be honored during the annual Faculty and Staff Awards Celebration in late April.