Dalian Maritime University - China
Author Profile
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Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Yuanyuan Li began her academic journey in Computer Science and Technology at Qufu Normal University from 2015 to 2019, where she laid a strong foundation in computational methods and algorithmic thinking. Driven by a passion for image processing and enhancement, she pursued her Master’s degree at Dalian Maritime University (a prestigious “211” project university) from 2019 to 2022, specializing in Image Enhancement. Her exceptional performance earned her a Master’s degree with an impressive average score of 94.52, along with distinctions such as the “Outstanding Graduate Student” honor, a National Scholarship, and recognition for an outstanding master's thesis. She is currently continuing her academic journey with a PhD at Dalian Maritime University, with a continued focus on Image Enhancement in the field of Optical Image Processing.
Professional Endeavors
Throughout her academic and research career, Dr. Li has engaged in cutting-edge research in Optical Image Processing, particularly focused on underwater image enhancement. Her professional endeavors include the co-invention of five patented technologies and significant contributions to national research projects such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China project on underwater small target perception, led by Fu Xianping. In this project, she played a critical role in exploring bionic vision systems for enhancing underwater image perception, blending theoretical depth with practical innovation.
Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Yuanyuan Li’s research contributions are deeply rooted in Optical Image Processing, particularly emphasizing underwater image enhancement through deep learning, multi-attention mechanisms, and diffusion models. She has authored several high-impact publications in top-tier journals such as IEEE Transactions on Circuits and Systems for Video Technology, IEEE Transactions on Multimedia, Optics and Lasers in Engineering, and IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering. Notable works include:
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"TAFormer: A Transmission-Aware Transformer for Underwater Image Enhancement", highlighting novel transformer architectures tailored for image restoration.
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"Underwater optical image enhancement via an unsupervised contrastive learning-guided diffusion model", showcasing pioneering efforts in self-supervised learning.
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"Multiframe-to-multiframe network for underwater unpaired video enhancement", advancing the frontiers of video-based enhancement in optical domains.
Her patents, such as the Brightness Mask Guided Multi-Attention Mechanism, reflect her contribution to practical implementations in Optical Image Processing systems.
Impact and Influence
Dr. Li’s work is reshaping how Optical Image Processing is applied in underwater environments, directly influencing AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) operations, marine exploration, and UUV (Unmanned Underwater Vehicle) navigation. Her research not only offers theoretical models but also deployable algorithms for real-world underwater imaging challenges. As a second or third inventor on multiple patented methods, she demonstrates both academic innovation and translational impact. Her models are particularly crucial for improving clarity and accuracy in optical images subjected to challenging lighting and distortion conditions underwater.
Academic Cites
Dr. Yuanyuan Li’s scholarly output has been recognized and cited across the global research community. Her articles in IEEE and Elsevier journals have received growing citations, confirming the value and applicability of her research in Optical Image Processing. These citations reflect her reputation as an emerging leader in the field, with contributions that bridge deep learning, vision science, and underwater robotics.
Legacy and Future Contributions
With a consistent record of academic excellence, national recognition, and scientific creativity, Dr. Li is poised to become a future leader in Optical Image Processing and underwater imaging systems. Her legacy will be marked by the practical translation of AI and deep learning techniques into tools that improve image quality in extreme visual environments. As she progresses through her doctoral studies, she is expected to pioneer further developments in transformer-based imaging architectures and unsupervised learning models, particularly in under-researched domains like underwater and low-light optical image environments.
📘Optical Image Processing
Dr. Yuanyuan Li’s innovative work in optical image processing has led to transformative breakthroughs in underwater enhancement systems. Her studies on optical image processing methods, such as transformer models and diffusion-guided learning, have advanced image clarity in marine environments. Her contributions continue to define the future of optical image processing, particularly in applications requiring robust image recovery under severe distortion and low visibility.
✍️ Notable Publication
Underwater optical image enhancement via an unsupervised contrastive learning-guided diffusion model
Journal: Optics and Lasers in Engineering
Year: 2025
Citations: 0
Multiframe-to-multiframe network for underwater unpaired video enhancement
Journal: Displays
Year: 2025
Citations: 1
A Vignetting-Correction-Based Underwater Image Enhancement Method for AUV With Artificial Light
Journal: IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering
Year: 2025
Citations: 0