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.
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!
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.
Eunsil Kim, Ph.D.
Research Assistant
I hold a PhD in Medical Science from University of Ulsan. My research focused on the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, as well as the pathogenesis of persistent bacterial infections and host immune responses. I am excited to join the Chung Lab and take 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 B.S.
Research Technician
I graduated from Rice University with a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience and a Distinction in Research and Creative Work. During my time at Rice, I helped elucidate various 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.
Lamha Mehdi
Undergraduate Researcher
I am currently an undergraduate student at Northeastern University pursuing a degree in Health Science. After completing my undergraduate studies, I hope to attend medical school. I am excited to be a part of this lab over the course of the summer and am eager to learn more about neurological research. In my free time I love to cook, hike, and listen to music.
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.