Dr. Lei earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Computer Science from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. She also holds a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Huddersfield, UK, and completed a postdoctoral position. In 2005, she returned to China and joined Shanghai Normal University's Cambridge International Center (now Ulink College) as Academic Affair Director and Deputy Director of the Center. In May 2011, she joined Guanghua Education Group and founded Shanghai Guanghua Cambridge International School (GHCIS) and has been the Principal to date.
 

Dr. Lei has been involved in establishing two prestigious international high schools in Shanghai over the past decade. In October 2015, she was appointed by Cambridge International Examinations as the first chairman of the Cambridge East China Alliance. In the same year, Dr. Lei synthesized her 10-year experience into "Be the Best of Ourselves – Words from A Principal," the first book in China that shares experiences from Chinese international high schools. The second book, "Be the Best of Ourselves – Words from Students,” was published in March 2017, followed by the third one, "Words from Parents," in April 2018. She was awarded the 2021 "Youlan Award" as one of the "Top Ten Most Influential Female Principals" at the 5th CERB International School Conference.
 

Dr. Lei is leading her team to courageously face the educational challenges in China and to explore the essence of education. She adheres to the educational philosophy that combines both Chinese and Western approaches and aims to pave a “Silk Road” to an international school that promotes well-being.