Project: On the plasticity of Beta-cell antigen recognition by diabetogenic CD8 T cells

NIH NIDDK Gateway Investigator Recipient

►Where are you from originally, and where did you go to school?

I am from China. I got my bachelor’s degree in the department of mechanical engineering at Fudan University and Ph.D. degree in the department of biomedical engineering at Washington University in St. Louis.  

►What is your current position?

I am currently an assistant professor at the department of pathology at the University of Utah.

►Why did you decide to become a researcher?

I chose to become a researcher because of my curiosity, passion for science, and the prospect of a fulfilling career in solving challenging scientific problems.

►What is the “Big Picture” of what you study?

My research aims to solve autoimmune diseases (e.g., type I diabetes) via understanding self-antigen recognition by the immune system.

►What is your favorite aspect of your research?

To me, the favorite aspect of doing research is the detective nature of problem-solving and the ultimate thrill of uncovering secrets of nature.

► What do you hope to achieve with your research?

I hope my research will contribute to the discovery of mechanisms of autoimmune diseases and thus make a difference in improving patient lives.

► What groups are you involved with?

I am currently a member of the American Diabetes Association, American Association of Immunologists, Biophysical Society, and Biomedical Engineering Society.

►When not in the lab what are your favorite hobbies/activities?

I love playing tennis and badminton.