Sharon Zhang

Sharon Zhang is a Ph.D. candidate in History at the University of Pittsburgh. Her dissertation examines the intricate material and cultural exchanges involved in gift-giving rituals between China and other parts of the world, particularly as reflected in foreign relations in the Mongol-Yuan era. Her research aims to explore how the circulation of tributary gifts facilitated the formation of transregional networks in the global medieval world. Sharon’s broader academic interests extend to foreign policies in Middle Period China, medieval Eurasian travelers along the overland and maritime Silk Road, and spatial and digital methods for Chinese studies. Prior to coming to Pitt, Sharon received her M.A. in History from North Carolina State University.