Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up and was educated in Taiwan, completing my Ph.D. in molecular and cell biology at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences in National Cheng Kung University. I am a research associate in the Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine researching genetic polymorphisms in lung disease. Before coming to UVA I was a visiting non-degree student at University of Chicago for two years.
Why research?
Research and the study of molecular and cell biology has always been a good fit for me. It is an endless study and the learning is continuous and satisfying. There is always the next thing that needs to be better understood.
What brought you to Charlottesville?
In early 2018 our clinical and research team at University of Chicago was recruited by University of Virginia to continue work on gene polymorphisms in human lung disease. It is great to be at UVA and it has been a fun adventure getting to know Charlottesville and everything the surrounding area offers.
What excites you about your work?
I enjoy basic research and how it applies to understanding the role of genetics in lung disease. It is a complex field and finding answers of any magnitude is exciting. The molecular design is beautiful and I am fascinated by the underlying mechanism.
What are you usually doing on the weekend?
Hiking and exploring the mountains and valley, cooking and enjoying conversation with friends and people I love. I like to visit country stores as they always seem to have something interesting.
Most admired person, and why?
My mom is the person I most admire. She is soft like water, but also as strong as water, slow and steady. Her mind is open and she loves freedom and always smiles no matter the difficulty in front of her.
Favorite vacation/activity spot?
I went to Banff and Jasper National Parks in Canada in 2017. We camped, hiked and saw glaciers which are new to me. We saw elk, moose and many other animals, but no bear showed up. It was a great trip.
Best advice anyone ever gave you?
Human beings will make mistakes and you are a human being. Recognize the mistake then fix it.
Filed Under: Research