State University of New York at Buffalo | United States
Author Profile:
Scopus
Orcid ID
Early Academic Pursuits:
Zhen Yan's academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from Xi’an Jiaotong University, China, followed by a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from Southeast University, Nanjing, China. She then pursued her Ph.D. in Neurobiology at the University of Tennessee, College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, USA, under the mentorship of Dr. James Surmeier.
Professional Endeavors:
After completing her Ph.D., Zhen Yan embarked on a prolific academic career. She held various positions at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, starting as a Postdoctoral Associate and eventually becoming a SUNY Distinguished Professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics. She also served as an Adjunct Faculty at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY.
Contributions and Research Focus on Neuroscience:
Yan's research primarily focused on neurobiology, with a particular emphasis on neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and autism. She investigated synaptic mechanisms, genetic factors, and epigenetic modifications underlying these conditions. Her work significantly contributed to understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets for these disorders.
Impact and Influence:
Zhen Yan's contributions have been widely recognized in the scientific community. She received numerous awards and honors, including the National Parkinson Foundation Menek Goldstein Research Scholar Award and the SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities. Her research findings have been published in prestigious journals and have influenced the field of neurobiology, particularly in the areas of Alzheimer's disease, autism, and synaptic physiology.
Academic Citations:
Yan's work has been cited extensively by her peers, indicating the significant impact of her research on the scientific community. Her publications have contributed to advancing knowledge in neurobiology and have served as a foundation for further studies in the field.
Legacy and Future Contributions:
As a distinguished professor and prolific researcher, Zhen Yan's legacy extends beyond her individual contributions. She has mentored numerous students and postdoctoral scholars, shaping the next generation of scientists. Her ongoing research continues to push the boundaries of neurobiology, offering hope for the development of novel therapies for neurodegenerative disorders and autism spectrum disorders.
Notable Publications: