Li Xiao  is  a widely  recognized  expert  whose  research focuses  on  rock  mechanics,  geological  engineering,  and  geological hazards. He has undertaken many research projects, including two sub-projects of the National 973 Program, a special project for developing major research equipment and devices funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), two projects respectively funded by NSFC and the Knowledge Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), one strategic pilot research project of the CAS, a sub-project of the State Council Three Gorges Project Construction Committee. He  has  also  carried  out more than 20 projects  commissioned by local  governments and large companies, such as the Department of Transportation of Hebei Province, Jinchuan Group, Yankuang Group, and China Three Gorges Corporation.