Yaling Zeng + Research Assistant Professor + Health Effects of Aerosols

YALING ZENG, Southern University of Science and Technology

     Abstract Number: 613
     Working Group: Meet the Job Seekers

Abstract
I am a Research Assistant Professor at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), specializing in environmental toxicology with a focus on protein adductomics and neurotoxicological mechanisms of airborne particulate matter (PM2.5). My research leverages high-resolution mass spectrometry (Orbitrap, FT-ICR) to identify protein-bound pollutants, providing molecular insights into how PM2.5 constituents translocate across the blood-brain barrier and potentially disrupt neurophysiological pathways.

Recent projects explore the role of PM2.5-bound organics in modulating amyloid protein aggregation, linking chronic exposure to neurodegenerative outcomes such as Alzheimer’s disease. These studies have revealed specific chemical markers of PM2.5 exposure that correlate with inflammatory and oxidative stress responses, contributing to biomarker development for early diagnosis and mechanistic understanding.

I am seeking a research position where I can further develop my expertise in molecular toxicology and biomarker identification while contributing to interdisciplinary projects focused on air pollution, neurodegeneration, and environmental health. My technical skills include advanced HRMS-based untargeted analysis, protein interaction studies, and computational toxicology, complemented by extensive experience in project leadership and graduate mentorship.