Yunseon Yang, Ph.D.
Postdoc Associate
I completed my Ph.D. in Biomedical Science at Hanyang University, Korea, in 2022. My research focuses on the study of glial cell dysfunction and the alleviation of neuroinflammation. Besides my academic pursuits, I enjoy reading books, attending concerts, and exploring new hobbies. I’m thrilled to be part of this dynamic research environment and look forward to being part of Chung’s lab and making significant scientific contributions.
Sungdae Kim
Postdoc Associate
I earned my Ph.D. in genetic engineering from Seoul National University, where I focused on researching neural development and hematopoiesis using the model organism Drosophila melanogaster. My research applies genetic and molecular approaches to uncover the fundamental mechanisms of biological development. I am particularly interested in how dysregulation in these systems can lead to neurological and blood-related diseases. In Dr. Chung’s lab, I am conducting pathophysiological studies of rare diseases to identify potential therapeutic targets. I have an interest in the natural world, and in my free time, I enjoy exploring the diverse animal and plant life through trekking.
Yoon-Kyung Shim, M.S.
Lab manager/Research Technician III
I received BS at Silla University (previously known as the Busan Women’s University) and MS at Gyeongsang National University in South Korea. I started my scientific career at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTEH) in South Korea and I’ve been involved in various research projects for more than a decade in three different laboratories at Baylor College of Medicine. I enjoy watching Korean TV shows and spend time with my friends on weekends.
Andrew Kim, B.S.
Research Technician I
I graduated from Rice University with a Bachelor of Science in Biosciences with a concentration in Biochemistry and a minor in Religion. As an undergraduate, I helped characterize the structure and activity of NS1, a nonstructural protein of the influenza D virus. I’m excited to work in the Chung Lab in my gap year as I apply to medical school to further develop as a researcher in an amazing, supportive environment. In my spare time, I enjoy running, hiking/backpacking, and photography. Fun fact: I’ve qualified for the 2025 USA Triathlon age group National Championships!
Maggie Xia
Undergraduate Researcher
I am an undergraduate student at Rice University pursuing a BS in Biosciences and a BA in Anthropology. After completing my undergraduate education, I hope to attend medical school. I’m excited to conduct innovative research in the Chung Lab on rare genetic diseases and neurological disorders, determining the mechanisms that contribute to their onset and progression. In my free time, I love to read, visit cafes, go to concerts, and explore Houston’s diverse food scene!
Eric Huynh
Undergraduate Researcher
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 the nature of neurodegenerative diseases and contribute to finding new, innovative therapeutics. In my free time, I enjoy playing pickleball, dancing, and going to eat with friends!
Sophia Lannie
Undergraduate Researcher
I am an undergraduate student at Rice University pursuing a BS in Biosciences, a BA in Psychology, and a minor in Neuroscience. After graduation, I plan on attending graduate school to study clinical neuropsychology. I’m so excited to be in the Chung Lab to investigate the drivers of neurodegeneration through innovative and multi-perspective methods. Outside of academia, I love to dance, hike, and try out cafés.
Mihir Sekhar
Undergraduate Researcher
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.
Chung Lab Alumni
Weihan (Lily) Chen
2025 SURI research intern
An aspiring physician-scientist who completed a summer research internship in the Chung Lab, focusing on developing foundational skills in neurological research under dedicated mentorship.
Sriya Dev
2025 SURI research intern
A UT Austin undergraduate studying finance and pursuing a Pre-Health Certificate who completed a 2025 SURI research internship in the Chung Lab.
Adhithi Shankar
2025 SURI research intern
A Texas A&M Biomedical Engineering undergraduate in the E2EnMed program who completed a summer research internship in the Chung Lab.
Sarita Palacio B.S.
Research Technician I
A Rice University graduate in Sports Medicine & Exercise Physiology and Latin American Studies who worked in the Chung Lab as a Research Technician during a gap year.
Lamha Mehdi
Visiting Grad. Research Fellow
A Texas A&M Biomedical Engineering undergraduate in the E2EnMed program who completed a summer research internship in the Chung Lab.
Aryan Gotur
2024 SURI research intern
An economics and mathematics undergraduate from Texas University who participated in the Chung Lab’s summer research program.
Tomomi Tanaka, M.D., Ph.D.
Research Assistant II
A physician-scientist trained at Akita University with a Ph.D. in Biological Functional and Medical Control from Niigata University, who joined the Chung Lab to expand research experience beyond the clinical field.