Meet Junyao Jiang – new postdoc in the Kim Group
Please join us in welcoming Junyao Jiang, our new Postdoc in the Kim Group. Junyao joins DANDRITE with a background in computational biology, single-cell and spatial multi-omics, and machine learning. In his new position, he will apply his expertise to studying microglia and neuroimmune cell state transitions in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
What research were you involved in immediately prior to joining DANDRITE, and at which institution(s)?
“Before joining DANDRITE, I was a PhD student at Westlake University, where my research focused on decoding cell fate decision processes by integrating single-cell and spatial multi-omics with machine learning. For example, I developed computational frameworks to decode embryonic stem cell fate priming and identify regulatory programs that govern cell fate decisions.”
What made you decide to join DANDRITE and move to Aarhus/Denmark?
“I decided to join the Kim Group because the research direction strongly aligns with my background and interest. The group uses single-cell and spatial omics approaches to study microglia and neuroimmune cell state transitions, and I am excited about the opportunity to extend my fate inference frameworks into the context of neurodegeneration, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Besides the scientific environment, Denmark is also an attractive place to live and work. I appreciate its open and inclusive culture, as well as the strong emphasis on work-life balance.”
Is there anything in particular that you are especially looking forward to in your new position?
"My previous research mainly focused on embryonic development and hematopoietic development. In my new position, I look forward to expanding my computational modeling approaches into neuroimmunology and using them to better understand how immune and neural cell states transition during aging and disease."
Is there a fun fact about yourself that you would be happy to share?
"Outside of research, I enjoy bodybuilding and strength training. I also love exploring dramatic natural landscapes, especially snow-capped mountains and high-altitude lakes. After moving to Northern Europe, I am looking forward to exploring the stunning landscapes of Norway, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands."