Leon Y. Xiao is a PhD Fellow at the IT University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He also holds visiting appointments at Queen Mary University of London (Law), UK, and the University of York (Computer Science), UK. Leon researches video game law, particularly the regulation of loot boxes, a quasi-gambling monetization mechanic in video games. He uses empirical legal research methods and is passionate about open science. He also dabbles in some research on the intersections between cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and gambling.

Leon’s research has been referenced in the House of Lords, UK, and cited by the UK and Spanish Governments and in Californian class action complaints. The Belgian Minister of Justice has publicly accepted his critical research, which has led to leading companies taking compliance action. His research has also been covered by The Times, The Guardian, NME (New Musical Express), and leading video game media, including GamesIndustry.biz, GameSpot, Eurogamer, and Game Developer, amongst others. He was named a Game Changer in 2021 by GamesIndustry.biz and a member of the Future Class 2022 by The Game Awards for his policy advocacy.

Leon has been a TTLF Fellow since 2023.