Ruilin’s research examines the shifting dynamics of autonomy and control in post-pandemic hybrid work, with particular attention to work–nonwork boundaries. This is especially relevant to the banking sector, which is both highly knowledge-intensive and increasingly reliant on hybrid work models that grant employees greater autonomy. Ruilin’s work offers nuanced insights into these dynamics. For example, his findings show that in hybrid work contexts, employees play an increasingly important role in shaping workplace practices and expectations—sometimes unintentionally intensifying managerial workloads. While long working hours are often viewed as a key source of work–nonwork conflict, Ruilin’s research also demonstrates that efforts to shorten work hours can have unintended consequences for both employees and managers. Moreover, he highlights the growing influence of nonwork spheres, such as family, peers, and social expectations, on shaping workplace interactions and dynamics in hybrid work settings.

Ruilin has been recognized by the award committee as a highly qualified PhD student with a promising future as a researcher, working on a timely topic of great relevance to both national and international banks.

Ruilin has been enrolled as a PhD student in the Department of Management and Organization at the Stockholm School of Economics since August 2021 and is expected to complete his dissertation in March 2026.