Shangyun (Bran) Chen is a PhD Candidate in Organizational Behavior at Singapore Management University. In his job market paper, Bran and his collaborators challenge the traditional view that power corrupts from the top by showing how low-power followers—those who flatter and conform—can corrupt leaders by shifting how they construe their power. This work was recognized as the Best Paper with Practical Implications (MOC Division, AOM 2025).
As an educator, Bran brings a thoughtful and research-informed approach to teaching. Having experienced diverse educational systems across China, the United States, and Singapore, he embraces a student-centric philosophy. He believes effective management education is a collaborative process between instructors and students. In his classroom, he tries to create a safe space where students feel comfortable reflecting on their values, challenging assumptions, and engaging thoughtfully with perspectives different from their own. In this process, he himself serves as a facilitator who coordinates discussion, sparks intellectual curiosity, and helps students think outside the box.
2021.08-2026.06 (Expected) Singapore Management University Ph.D. in Business (OBHR)
2018.09-2021.06 Chongqing University M.S. in Business Administration
2017.07-2017.08 University of California, Los Angeles Exchange Student
2014.09-2018.06 Nantong University B.A. in Management
2026 Dean's PhD Student Award
2025 The Best Paper with Practical Implications, MOC Division, Academy of Management
2024-2025 Singapore Management University Lim Kim San Fellowship
2024-2025 Singapore Management University Presidential Doctoral Fellowship
2023 Best Reviewer Award, OB Division, Academy of Management
2021-2025 Singapore Management University PhD Fellowship
2020 Ryoichi Sasakawa Young Leaders Fellowship
2017 Full Scholarship from Provincial Government for Overseas Studies at UCLA
2017 Provincial Outstanding Student Cadres (in Jiangsu Province, China)
2016-2018 National Encouragement Scholarship
2015 National Scholarship
Outside of research, I’m a dedicated chīhuò (吃货)—a true food lover! I enjoy cooking Chinese dishes and hunting down delicious local cuisines. One of my favorite ways to connect with friends is by cooking for them.
I stay active through badminton, jogging, cycling, and swimming, and I recharge by spending time in nature—hiking on weekends is a regular ritual.
I’m also a big fan of epic fantasy worlds. Game of Thrones, The Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter have all shaped my love for storytelling and imagination.
Dear all my friends—miss you, and I hope we can share good food and stories again soon!
Email: sychen.2021@pbs.smu.edu.sg