Why did you choose Johns Hopkins for your work?

I chose Johns Hopkins because of its storied history and its global preeminence in neuroscience. The university offers a world-class academic atmosphere with cutting-edge instrumentation that allows for the seamless integration of basic science and clinical research. Furthermore, I was drawn to my PI, Dr. Xiaobo Mao, as we share similar research backgrounds originating in nanoscience, which created a unique synergy for our interdisciplinary work.

What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally? Do you have any connection with the particular award you received?

Personally and professionally, this award is a significant milestone — it is the first major accolade of my academic career. To me, it serves as a validation of my transition into a new research field, an endorsement of our collaborative research model, and a beacon of hope for my future professional transformation.

What contributed to your project’s success? (Special skills, interests, opportunities, guidance, etc.)

The success of this project is a collective achievement. First and foremost, I must credit my closest friend and lab partner, Dr. Haiqing Liu. When I first transitioned to this major, she was the one who walked me through every experiment. She taught me every necessary skill and shared every detail and principle with incredible patience. Beyond the bench, her endless care and support helped me, a naturally introverted person, quickly integrate into the lab. This project was a true partnership; half of this success belongs to her, and I am honored to share this recognition with her.

I also owe a great debt of gratitude to my PI, Dr. Xiaobo Mao. He has given me his absolute trust, constant encouragement and immense tolerance. By sharing his own research experiences, he guided me through my uncertainties. In him, I see so many qualities I still need to learn: His divergent scientific thinking and his powerful interdisciplinary communication skills were the keys to our project’s successful publication.

I must also thank my parents. Their unwavering support and understanding have been the “solid shield” that allows me to pursue my research in the U.S. with peace of mind, and the JHU platform for providing the high-level resources necessary for this discovery. Finally, I am proud of my own perseverance — for my persistence through the most difficult times without giving up, for my determination to remain true to my beliefs without being swayed by the outside environment, and for my kindness, which I believe is why I have been lucky enough to receive so much help from others.

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 believe this celebration is vital. It provides students and fellows with much-needed confidence and formal recognition, highlighting the essential role the next generation of researchers plays in JHU’s scientific mission.

What has been your best/most memorable experience while at Johns Hopkins?

My most memorable experience has been the return of my research partner, Haiqing, to Johns Hopkins after a two-year absence. Her presence has made my research journey here complete once again.

What are your plans over the next year or so? Graduating, looking for faculty positions, etc.?

In the coming year, I plan to continue my close collaboration with Haiqing. Our goal is to complete more impactful projects together and successfully secure further research funding.

Tell me something interesting about yourself that makes you unique. Do you have any special hobbies, interests or life experiences?

I have a wide range of interests, including basketball, table tennis, golf and swimming. However, my greatest joy is cooking — nothing makes me happier than preparing a delicious meal for the people I love.