Yuguo Liao’s primary research interests include organizational theory and behavior, local governance and government performance improvement. Liao is interested in the role of public administration in designing mechanisms, creating structures, and building capacities to facilitate productive and accountable public management.

Currently, his research focuses on (1) The professional development and career growth of professional managers, particularly, how local government managers navigate this profession and how they can position themselves for success matter greatly in maintaining excellence in public service. (2) The role of professional managers in accomplishing organizational goals. (3) The incentives of professional managers to foster effective and engaging public management. (4) The interaction between professional managers and other stakeholders, including elected officials and citizens, in administrative decision-making.

His research has appeared in Public Management Review, Public Administration, American Review of Public Administration, Public Personnel Management, Public Performance & Management Review and other scholarly outlets.