Name: Cindy Zhang
Lab Position: Lab Manager
Degree: M.Sc.
Education: BSc, in Biochemistry, Joseph Fourier University, Grenoble, France
MSc, in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Joseph Fourier University, Grenoble, France
What’s your research background?
In addition to lab general managing and operational responsibilities, I’ve been involved in multiple research projects over past years. Recently, I had tried to generate human cerebral organoids (mini brain) from patient derived iPSC. Brain organoids can mimic early human brain development at molecular, cellular, structural levels. I’m currently trying to induce patients derived iPSC into neural progenitor cells, then differentiate them into astrocytes, neurons or other types of brain cells. These 2D or 3D neural culture systems that harbored genetic background of cancer patient will allow us to study in-depth the mechanism of tumour initiation and progression. They’ve become a potential platform for new drug testing and other pre-clinical applications.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in a career in research?
You need to genuinely love what you do. Be curious, be courageous, and work hard.
What are your interests outside of science?
Dancing and gardening are my favorite hobbies. I would also travel more if I had the time and money. I also like swimming, hiking in summer, and skiing in winter.
What’s your favorite food?
I’m a dessert and soup lover.
Do you prefer coffee, tea, or none?
I drink coffee to stay awake but prefer the flavour of Chinese tea.