Haozhe Zou
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Gorbunova/Liu Labs
You work in a laboratory. What are you currently researching?
I investigate the molecular mechanisms that regulate longevity and aging through cross-species multi-omics integration. Species vary dramatically in lifespan, providing natural models for discovering mechanisms that shape aging and longevity, while multi-omics data allow me to examine these mechanisms across multiple biological layers. My work combines transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and human genetic data to define conserved gene programs associated with aging, lifespan, and reproductive decline.
What do you enjoy most about working here at the U of R?
I’m surrounded by people who are generous with their knowledge and open to discussion, which helps me sharpen my scientific thinking and develop as an independent researcher. I also appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of the environment here, because my work depends on connecting computational analysis with biological questions.
What advice would you give to prospective students looking to study in our department?
Start with a biological question, then get your hands on the data. Look for patterns, summarize what you find, and turn those observations into testable hypotheses. Whether you are working at the bench or on a computer, the key is to keep asking questions and learning by doing.
What’s the most important thing that you’ve learned working here and/or studying biology?
Research requires both structure and flexibility. A good plan is important, but biology often leads you somewhere unexpected. Whether working with experiments or data, each result teaches you how to refine the question, adjust the method, and move forward more thoughtfully.
How do you unwind when you’re not in the lab?
At work, I am very much a planner. I like structure, goals, and checking things off a list. Outside the lab, I recharge by being more spontaneous. I enjoy letting the day unfold, following whatever catches my interest, and not having every moment planned.