Tian Zhang
Graduate Student, The Ghaemmaghami Lab
You work in a laboratory. What are you currently researching?
I work in the Ghaemmaghami Lab. Our laboratory studies the mechanisms of protein folding and degradation within cells. My research uses isotopic labeling and mass spectrometry-based methodology to quantify proteome dynamics and elucidate the selectivity of different protein degradation pathways and how cells maintain proteome homeostasis under different conditions.
What was it that originally sparked your interest in biology?
When I was in primary school, I went on field trips with my mom a lot. She knew everything about the plants. Particularly, she knew which ones are edible. I wanted to learn more about biology so I could pick things I want and eat them.
What do you enjoy most about working here at the U of R?
The most enjoyable part is the people. Everyone around is very kind and helpful. They have helped me in all the aspects of my life. I really appreciate it.
What advice would you give to prospective students looking to study in our department?
Never be hesitate to try new things.
What’s the most important thing that you’ve learned working here and/or studying biology?
Everything has a reason.