Tian Zhang, Ph.D., Principal Investigator.

Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics

Sameek Singh is currently a research scientist in the lab. Previously, during his postdoctoral work at the Broad Institute, he developed chemical approaches to modulate protein and cellular activity through targeted post-translational and other covalent modifications, leveraging techniques such as proteomics, DNA-encoded library (DEL) screening, and pooled CRISPR screening. During his PhD, Sameek used medicinal and computational chemistry methods to develop chemical tools for studying class A G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs). His current work centers on advancing proteomics methodologies to investigate biological processes and applying these insights toward the development of novel chemical probes. Outside the lab, he enjoys building things and staying active through regular workouts.

Ang Luo, research scientist. Ang got his Ph. D degree in genetics in Nankai University in China, where he studied the molecular mechanisms of breast cancer. Then He pursued postdoctoral training in the University of Minnesota, where he studied how tumor cells respond to hypoxia by using proteomics. Next, he found an instructor position in the Northwest A&F University in China. He joined Tian’s lab as a research scientist in May 2025. Ang is currently working on using quantitative proteomics methodologies to explore the regulatory mechanism of unfolded protein response (UPR). Outside of the lab, he enjoys table tennis and basketball.

Yue Dou, graduate student. Yue is a mass spec expert working on the development of both DDA and DIA methods. She enjoys traveling and food!

Maja E. Wierzbinska, Visiting graduate student from the BioLab program. Maja is working on high-throughput drug screening using chemoproteomics methods. Her major is forensic science!

Danny Qiu, lab specialist. Danny works on utilizing proteomics methods to investigate the drug resistance mechanisms in melanoma models. He is an undergrad with superpowers!

Joanne Lee, undergraduate student. Joanne is a student at the University of Virginia, majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience and minoring in Data Science. She is gaining hands-on experience in proteomics and data analysis. Outside the lab, she enjoys playing volleyball and exploring new cuisines.

James E. Vokoun is a fourth year undergraduate majoring in biochemistry and an aspiring medical school student. James is investigating the alterations of protein complexes under stress conditions. Outside of the lab, James plays a lot of golf.

Lab Alumni

Dina L. Bai (senior scientist) — now senior scientist in Jarrod Marto lab

Erin D. Jeffery (senior scientist) — now senior scientist in Gloria M. Sheynkman lab

Vivien Lee (Undergrad) —

Lily Baker (Summer intern) — Research Technician @UNC

Celeste Amron (Undergrad) — Genetic counseling assistant @ Mount Sinai

Seth Kodikara (Graduate student) — Project Chemist I @ Pace Analytical