Lin taught at Peking University since 1986, he became a professor at the College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University (CCME) in August 1995. In July 1997 he became the Deputy Dean of the College of the CCME, rising to President in April 2001. He became the Vice-President of Peking University in September 2002, Executive Vice-President of Peking University in December 2004.