Our Expert Team
Chief Executive Director - Dennis Weng
Dr. Dennis Weng is the Founding Director of the Asia Pacific Peace Research Institute (APPRI) and an Associate Professor of Political Science at Sam Houston State University. He also serves as a non-resident Senior Fellow at the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy in Washington, D.C. With a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Dallas, Dr. Weng specializes in U.S.-China-Taiwan relations, foreign policy, and the geopolitical dynamics of the Asia-Pacific region.
Widely recognized for his deep expertise and extensive network across the Asia-Pacific and the U.S., Dr. Weng offers invaluable insights into defense strategies, international relations, and policy discussions. He is the author of two significant books: *The Myth of War in the Taiwan Strait* and *Decoding Washington D.C.* (in Chinese), both of which provide critical perspectives on global geopolitical conflicts.
Through his leadership at APPRI, Dr. Weng continues to build bridges between policymakers in Washington, D.C., and stakeholders in Asia, contributing to informed decision-making on key international challenges.
Director of Technology Strategy - Eric "Boomer" Chang
Eric "Boomer" Chang is an innovative and results-driven technology leader with over 25 years of experience in technology strategy, enterprise architecture, and large-scale system integration. He has worked with global firms like IBM and Accenture, as well as three start-ups, bringing deep expertise in technology transformation, M&A due diligence, and observability solutions. Eric has a proven track record of leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects for clients like Walt Disney World Parks & Resorts.
Eric has led strategic technology initiatives across various industries, including financial services, telecom, retail, automotive, and sports marketing. His achievements include conducting comprehensive technology assessments, establishing observability capabilities, leading M&A due diligence for multi-million-dollar acquisitions, and designing cloud-based data solutions. Eric's expertise in managing large-scale integrations and working with stakeholders at all levels has driven impactful results and successful project deliveries.
Eric’s strategic vision and technical expertise enable him to align technology solutions with business objectives, driving measurable results across diverse industries. He delivers innovative and impactful solutions for clients using his experience and knowledge at the enterprise-level and cross-functional capabilities.
Sr Researcher- Dr. Rocky L. Uriankhai
Based in Taipei, Taiwan, Dr. Rocky L. Uriankhai combines technical expertise and geopolitical insight in his role as APPRI’s Taiwan Coordinator, contributing significantly to APPRI’s mission of fostering peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
Dr. Uriankhai earned his Ph.D. from National Taiwan University in 2022, with a thesis on "U.S.-China Tech War and Power Transfer." He also holds dual Master's Degrees in Government and Public Policy(NTU) and Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (University of Michigan), spanning a 30-year career in technology, finance, media, and consulting across Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China.
Since 2015, Dr. Uriankhai has written columns on global affairs and launched a YouTube series on Technology and International Relations. He regularly lectures at Taiwanese universities, fostering dialogue on these topics and connecting APPRI’s research with stakeholders in Taiwan to advance regional cooperation.
Director of Legal Affairs - Pei-Lun Chang, Esq.
Pei-Lun Chang brings over a decade of specialized expertise in Intellectual Property and Business Transactional Law, shaping him into a distinguished attorney in trademark, trade dress, and copyright law. As a partner at Baker and Rannells, PA, Pei-Lun provides sophisticated legal strategies to a diverse client base, including multinational corporations and innovative entrepreneurs. His practice covers the entire spectrum of IP services, from trademark prosecution and litigation to anti-counterfeiting efforts and portfolio management, making him a formidable advocate for intellectual property rights.
A leader in international trademark law, Pei-Lun spearheads global trademark clearance, application, enforcement, and dispute resolution initiatives. His legal acumen extends to managing complex transactional agreements and advising on business matters, including licensing, advertising, and social media law. His clients benefit from his strategic guidance in IP issues before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, in UDRP proceedings, and within U.S. Federal Courts.
Fluent in Mandarin and deeply attuned to Asia-Pacific dynamics, Pei-Lun serves as an Asia Affairs Specialist, helping clients navigate IP challenges in China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. He assists U.S.-based businesses in adapting trademarks for Mandarin-speaking markets, interpreting complex regulations to facilitate brand success in these regions.
Pei-Lun’s impressive client portfolio spans multiple high-profile industries, underlining his keen business insight and dedication to intellectual property. As a trusted advisor, he remains committed to advancing and safeguarding his clients' interests globally.