Chung Lab · People

Our team

Researchers and trainees working together to understand neurological disease through genetics, glial biology, and Drosophila research.

Current members

Yunseon Yang

Yunseon Yang, Ph.D.

Postdoctoral Associate

Glial cell dysfunction and neuroinflammation.

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I completed my Ph.D. in Biomedical Science at Hanyang University, Korea, in 2022. My research focuses on glial cell dysfunction and the alleviation of neuroinflammation. Beyond research, I enjoy reading books, attending concerts, and exploring new hobbies. I’m delighted to be part of the Chung Lab and to contribute to this dynamic research environment.

Sungdae Kim

Sungdae Kim, Ph.D.

Postdoctoral Associate

Drosophila genetics and the mechanisms of rare neurological diseases.

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I earned my Ph.D. in Genetic Engineering from Seoul National University, where I studied neural development and hematopoiesis using Drosophila melanogaster. My research uses genetic and molecular approaches to uncover fundamental mechanisms of biological development and how their dysregulation can lead to neurological and blood-related diseases. In the Chung Lab, I study the pathophysiology of rare diseases to identify potential therapeutic targets. Outside the lab, I enjoy trekking and exploring the diversity of animal and plant life.

Yoon-Kyung Shim

Yoon-Kyung Shim, M.S.

Lab Manager / Research Technician III

Laboratory research experience spanning POSTECH and Baylor College of Medicine.

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I received my B.S. at Silla University, previously known as Busan Women’s University, and my M.S. at Gyeongsang National University in South Korea. I began my scientific career at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) and have contributed to research projects for more than a decade in three laboratories at Baylor College of Medicine. I enjoy watching Korean TV shows and spending time with friends on weekends.

Eunsil Kim

Eunsil Kim, Ph.D.

Research Assistant

Microbiology and immune-response research applied to rare genetic and neurological diseases.

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I hold a Ph.D. in Medical Science from the University of Ulsan. My research focused on mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, the pathogenesis of persistent bacterial infections, and host immune responses. In the Chung Lab, I am taking on new challenges by contributing to research on rare genetic diseases and neurological disorders. Outside of research, I enjoy jogging and playing tennis, which help me stay energized and motivated.

Othniel Amanyi

Othniel Amanyi

Research Technician

Rice neuroscience graduate with research experience in microglial cell biology.

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I graduated from Rice University with a degree in Neuroscience and a Distinction in Research and Creative Work. During my time at Rice, I helped elucidate aspects of microglial cell biology in zebrafish and cavefish. In the future, I hope to attend medical school. In my free time, I enjoy designing sports posters, playing and watching basketball, and playing chess.

Maggie Xia

Maggie Xia

Undergraduate Researcher

Rice undergraduate studying biosciences and anthropology, with interests in rare genetic and neurological diseases.

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I am an undergraduate student at Rice University pursuing a B.S. in Biosciences and a B.A. in Anthropology. After completing my undergraduate education, I hope to attend medical school. I’m excited to conduct research in the Chung Lab on rare genetic diseases and neurological disorders, exploring the mechanisms that contribute to their onset and progression. In my free time, I love reading, visiting cafes, going to concerts, and exploring Houston’s diverse food scene.

Eric Huynh

Eric Huynh

Undergraduate Researcher

Rice undergraduate studying biosciences and art, with an interest in neurodegenerative disease.

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I am an undergraduate student at Rice University studying Biosciences and Art on the Pre-Physician Assistant track. I am eager to learn more about neurodegenerative diseases and contribute to the search for new therapeutics. In my free time, I enjoy playing pickleball, dancing, and going out to eat with friends.

Mihir Sekhar

Mihir Sekhar

Undergraduate Researcher

Rice neuroscience and religion undergraduate with interests in metabolism and neurodegeneration.

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I am an undergraduate student at Rice University majoring in Neuroscience and Religion, with a minor in Biochemistry. I am fascinated by how metabolic pathways influence brain function and neurodegeneration, and I am excited to explore these mechanisms in the Chung Lab using the Drosophila model system. I plan to attend medical school after graduation to continue bridging research and medicine. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, learning guitar, and watching movies.

Cory Zhang

Cory Zhang

Undergraduate Researcher

Texas A&M nursing student interested in neurological disease mechanisms and patient care.

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I am a nursing student at Texas A&M University with a background in the biological sciences and a strong interest in neuroscience. Through my nursing education and clinical experiences, I have developed an interest in the pathophysiology of neurological diseases and how research into disease mechanisms can translate into better patient care. I am excited to contribute to the Chung Lab’s work while gaining a deeper understanding of neurological disease through Drosophila research. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, camping, fashion, and exploring new restaurants.

Laylee Taghizadeh

Laylee Taghizadeh

Undergraduate Researcher

Rice undergraduate studying cell biology and genetics, with an interest in neurodegenerative disease.

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I am currently an undergraduate student at Rice University studying Cell Biology and Genetics. After completing my undergraduate degree, I hope to attend medical school. I'm excited to explore the Chung Lab's research on neurodegenerative diseases and contribute to innovative discoveries. In my free time, I enjoy pilates, visiting cafes, and watching movies.

Alumni & next chapters

We celebrate our alumni’s next steps in medicine, education, and research.

Andrew Kim, B.S.

Now · Medical Student

Baylor College of Medicine

Former Research Technician I
2024–2026

Sarita Palacio, B.S.

Now · Medical Student

UTMB

Former Rice Research Intern
January 2024–May 2025

Rice University graduate in Sports Medicine & Exercise Physiology and Latin American Studies.

Weihan (Lily) Chen

Now · Undergraduate Student

Harvard University

Former SURI Research Intern
June–August 2025

Recipient of the 2025 SURI Research Excellence Award.

Ranjan Sahu, Ph.D.

Postdoctoral Associate

October 2023–February 2026

Now a Postdoctoral Fellow at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Tomomi Tanaka, M.D., Ph.D.

Research Assistant II

July 2023–June 2025

A physician-scientist trained at Akita University, with a Ph.D. in Biological Functional and Medical Control from Niigata University.

Sriya Dev

SURI Research Intern

June–August 2025

Completed a summer research internship in the Chung Lab, with a background in finance and pre-health studies at UT Austin.

Adhithi Shankar

SURI Research Intern

June–August 2025

Completed a summer research internship in the Chung Lab, with a background in Biomedical Engineering in the E2EnMed program at Texas A&M.

Lamha Mehdi

Research Intern

May–August 2024

Completed a summer research internship in the Chung Lab.

Aryan Gotur

SURI Research Intern

June–August 2024

Completed a SURI summer research internship in the Chung Lab.

Yu Yaping, B.S.

Research Technician I

April 2023–April 2024

Now a Research Technician I in Dr. Appel’s lab at Houston Methodist Hospital.

Alumni information updated October 2026.