Run Gu graduated from the University of Sydney, Australia, and then she studied Sinology and history at the University of Tübingen, Germany. Her academic interest focuses on medieval Chinese poetry, religions and philosophy, as well as the conceptual history of this period. She pays special attention to religions' interaction with supernatural literature, such as what role metaphysics plays in Eastern Jin's fairy poetry. Shapeshifter is one exciting theme she currently works on, as its frequent nomination in medieval literature from both China and Japan is incredible for further interpretation.