Faculty Appointment
Professor of Medical Education, Biochemistry, Immunology
Education
Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
M.Sc. in Plant Physiology: Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
B. Sc. in Biology: Anhui Normal University, China
Biography
Dr. Ling received his PhD degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. He had done his postdoctoral research and subsequent investigation as research faculty at University of California, Riverside and Loma Linda University School of Medicine. He then joined Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine as an assistant professor in 2008 and was later promoted to associate professor, where he had conducted basic and translational research in cancer biology areas. His previous research was supported by a Pennsylvania foundation and jointly funded by the Department of Defense. Dr. Ling had also taught MD and master’s programs there for many years. Combined with the experience in academic advising and MD/ MBS curriculum development and admission, he has matured to an educator. Currently, Dr. Ling is also an Adjunct Associate Clinical Professor at Loma Linda University School of Medicine.
Research Interests
With long-term research experience in the regulation of gene expression by mRNA translation and signal transduction, Dr. Ling’s current research focus on the investigation of molecular mechanisms of breast cancer heterogeneity, aiming to identify new biological targets for advancing the diagnosis and therapy of breast cancers. His research utilizes experimental and bioinformatics approaches with emphasis on clinical relevance through collaboration with physicians. His detailed research projects are in the following areas:
- Regulation of cancer development by mRNA translation: focusing on the importance of translational initiation factors (eIF) in cancer development and progression, specifically including eIF4A, eIF4G, and eIF2α.
- Roles of signal transduction in cancer development and therapy: investigating the dual functions of PAK2 kinase in promoting cancer growth and survival under different stress and therapeutic conditions.
- Regulation of breast cancer development by functional interaction between NFkB and glucocorticoid receptor (GR): identifying specific transcriptional nodes in different subtypes of breast cancer, especially in triple negative breast cancer.
Student Research Opportunities
With the expertise and experience of Dr. Ling’s research in molecular cancer biology, students can receive strict training and perform research in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and biosensor areas. They can participate in the on-going projects in Dr. Ling’s lab or develop their own projects under his guidance. Dr. Ling is passionate in integrating research into medical education; he has track record in training students into MD, PhD, and other professional programs.