Tian Zhang, Ph.D., Principal Investigator.

Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics

Sameek Singh, Research Scientist. 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.

Chris Prevost, Postdoctoral Research Associate. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Virginia in the Summer of 2025, where his graduate research focused on the molecular mechanisms and biological significance of lipid droplet dynamics during cellular stress. Before beginning his doctoral work, Chris worked at the University of Rochester where he studied tRNA modifications in the lab of Dragony Fu. He also worked in the lab of Elaine Sia researching mitochondrial DNA repair mechanisms. Chris joined the Zhang lab in early 2026, where he utilizes his strong background in biochemistry and cell biology and applies proteomic methodologies to investigate how cells adapt to stress and the biological consequences of those adaptations. Outside of the lab, Chris regularly plays role playing games and board games with friends. He also loves to spend time with his dog, taking her to the bark (park) whenever he can.

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!

Kittinun Leetanaporn (Pete), Visiting Postdoc. He holds an MD (OB/GYN) and a PhD in biomedical sciences from Prince of Songkla University. He then took an Assistant Professor position at Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, where he worked on clinical data analysis and mass spectrometry-based proteomics for biomarker discovery in gynecological cancers. He joined Tian’s lab in July 2026.

Kaitlyn Thai, undergraduate student. She is an Echols Scholar at the University of Virginia. She is majoring in Chemical Physics and minoring in Biomedical Engineering. She is passionate about mass spectrometry and proteomics! Outside of the lab, she enjoys swimming, reading, music, caffeine, crafts, and spending time with family.

Our lab!

Lab Alumni

Dina L. Bai (Senior scientist)

Erin D. Jeffery (Senior scientist)

Lily Baker (Summer intern)

Celeste Amron (Undergrad)

Seth Kodikara (Graduate student)

James E. Vokoun (Undergrad)

Joanne Lee (Undergrad)

Danny Qiu (Undergrad)

Vivien Lee (Undergrad)

Maja E. Wierzbinska (Visiting graduate student)