Visiting Research Fellow

Profile

I completed my PhD at Shenyang Agricultural University in 2018, where my research focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which Huipizhi Heidou, a black seed-coat soybean, significantly reduces the female index of plant-parasitic nematodes. This work provided me with a strong foundation in molecular plant pathology and the genetic basis of plant resistance. I subsequently joined the Department of Plant Protection at Yan’an University as a faculty member, where I continued to explore sustainable strategies for managing crop diseases.

Currently, I am a Visiting Scholar at the School of Biology, University of Leeds (March 2026 – March 2027), supported by the China Scholarship Council. My research at Leeds centers on the identification and functional characterization of effectors from plant-parasitic nematodes, under the supervision of Professor Peter Urwin and Dr. Catherine Lilley. This project involves using advanced molecular techniques to understand how nematode effectors manipulate host plant cellular processes to establish infection. My broader research interests include plant-microbe interactions, the co-evolution of plants and pathogens, and the development of novel, sustainable crop protection strategies that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. I am particularly interested in translating fundamental research into practical solutions for improving global food security.

Research interests

Plant-Parasite Interactions & Molecular Pathology

My research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying plant resistance to nematodes. Specifically, I am interested in the functional characterization of nematode effectors and their manipulation of host cellular processes. I employ integrated approaches combining molecular plant pathology, functional genomics, and biochemical techniques to identify virulence factors and to explore novel strategies for sustainable crop protection.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plant pathology, Shenyang Agricultural University
• Master in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology,Shenyang Agricultural University,
• BSc in Computer Science, Shenyang Institute of Technology

Professional memberships

• Editorial Board Member in Journal of Yan'an University

Research groups and institutes

• Plant Sciences