Wen Shi
The cerebral venous system is understudied in both normal and pathological conditions. Many brain diseases involve alterations in venous physiology. However, there is a scarcity of available tools to assess the cerebral venous physiology, and even the normative values for the venous physiological properties are not known. As a Ph.D. student under the mentorship of Dr. Hanzhang Lu in the Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, my research focuses on developing and optimizing advanced non-contrast MRI techniques to measure the venous physiological parameters. Specifically, I investigate venous transit time as a metric of venous function and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability to water to assess BBB integrity in healthy populations and individuals with neurological diseases.
Questions & Answers
Why did you choose Johns Hopkins for your work?
Johns Hopkins is renowned for pioneering modern medicine and academic research. I am privileged to work with a host of talented investigators who develop cutting-edge techniques and conduct research aimed at addressing unmet clinical needs. The community is not only supportive but deeply collaborative, fostering an environment where innovation truly thrives.
What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally? Do you have any connection with the particular award you received?
I am truly grateful to receive the David Israel Macht Research Award, and it also recognizes our team’s scientific contributions. The award motivates me to continue the mission of Johns Hopkins and to advance scientific and technical innovation to tackle critical challenges in clinical practice.
What contributed to your project’s success? (Special skills, interests, opportunities, guidance, etc.)
My project’s success would not have been possible without the invaluable hands-on training and support from my mentor, Dr. Hanzhang Lu. Beyond this guidance, the keys to my progress have been an enduring curiosity about the unknown and a commitment to scientific rigor throughout the research process.
What thoughts do you have about Young Investigators’ Day itself, as a celebration of the roles students and fellows play in research at Johns Hopkins?
I truly appreciate this program’s commitment to fostering great minds and acknowledging the impact that young investigators have on our collective Johns Hopkins community.
What has been your best/most memorable experience while at Johns Hopkins?
My most memorable experience at Johns Hopkins was the moment we unraveled a complex experimental observation. We developed a hypothesis that was ultimately validated through our subsequent research, turning a moment of curiosity into a significant breakthrough.
What are your plans over the next year or so? Graduating, looking for faculty positions, etc.?
I will soon begin a postdoctoral position at Johns Hopkins and transition toward a role as an independent investigator.
Tell me something interesting about yourself that makes you unique. Do you have any special hobbies, interests or life experiences?
I enjoy exploring various forms of art, as they often ignite creative insights. I am also a passionate sports enthusiast.