Yin, Xiang
Current Institution: Johns Hopkins Bloomerg School of Public Health
Hometown: Zhengzhou, China
Fields of Interest:
Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Genetics
Microbial Genetics
Medical Genetics- Human and Animal
When and how did you realize that you wanted to study Genetics & Genomics?
I majored in molecular and cell biology during my undergraduate. I took an Active Genetics course during my last quarter. That course was taught by Dr. Ethan Bier. I was shocked that with these fascinating designs we can alter Mendelian inheritance patterns. This feature allows it to be applied to many areas, such as vector control, pest control, eliminating antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, and more. Since then, I realized I should focus more on genetics.
Why did you choose the Genetics & Genomics Ph.D. program at A&M?
I first learned about this program through recommendations from my master’s professors, as well as from Texas A&M professors whom I had contacted. When I talked to my master’s professors about my interest in working on active genetics, they all recommended Texas A&M, since the professors there are at the forefront of this type of research.
If you were free to choose anything, what research question/topic would you like to address for your graduate studies?
I want to work on active genetics because I believe that active genetics, including gene drive and gene-drive-like approaches, may become an important component of future vector-control and pest-control strategies. These approaches have the potential to complement existing control methods by spreading traits that suppress target populations or reduce their ability to transmit pathogens.
Fun Facts:
What would be your dream job after graduation from the program?
Becoming a scientist has been my dream since childhood. So, I would like to continue doing research after graduation.
Do you have any pets? If so, please tell us about them.
During my undergraduate years, I kept three tortoises, and I would love to keep tortoises again when I start school.