11 Sep 2025
Gaomuyi Wang's experience exemplifies XJTLU's commitment to fostering scientific curiosity.?Gaomuyi (Mu) Wang, a recent high school graduate from Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, traded a typical summer break for a unique opportunity: conducting cutting-edge neuroscience research at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU).
Before finalizing her university major, the 19-year-old sought authentic experience in the life sciences. Following a recommendation from a friend studying at XJTLU, she proactively reached out to Professor Alan Kaluev, Department of Biosciences and Bioinformatics, School of Science at XJTLU offering to volunteer in his laboratory for the summer.
Professor Jia Meng, Head of the Department of Biological Sciences and Bioinformatics, noted: "It is highly unusual to receive such a request from a high school student. Her initiative was impressive, and we decided to embrace the experiment."
This decision aligns with the ethos of the School of Science. Its Dean, Professor John Moraros, explained: "Our School is committed to providing a vibrant, international research environment for all intellectually curious minds. Supporting young, passionate talent like Gaomuyi Wang is at the heart of our mission at XJTLU."
That confidence grew rapidly. She soon transitioned from observer to active participant, proactively reporting her progress to Professor Kaluev, contributing ideas on experiments, and engaging in academic discussions and paper writing.
During the summer, she participated in several neuroscience projects in the lab, including modeling chronic stress induced by sleep deprivation in zebrafish, as well as helping a team of dedicated XJTLU students to develop a novel AI-based system for assessing zebrafish orofacial movements. The latter project aimed to mimic (in zebrafish models) oral dyskinesias—a common clinical sign of several serious neurological disorders, including stroke and epilepsy.
"This summer was extraordinary," She reflected. "I was immersed in the full research process from experimental design to data analysis. I also learned invaluable lessons in collaboration and made lifelong friends. I am deeply grateful to XJTLU for this incredible opportunity."
The "high school experiment" was deemed a resounding success by all parties involved. Professor Alan Kaluev, the Lab Director, was thoroughly impressed. The student demonstrated remarkable maturity and dedication," he stated. "It is always rewarding to mentor bright young minds with a genuine passion for science. She integrated seamlessly into the team and contributed meaningfully to our work. Her time here was undoubtedly a success.
The student's story underscores a powerful message: at XJTLU, scientific potential is recognized and nurtured, regardless of the stage in one's academic journey as part of our extraordinary commitment is to lifelong learning!"
Content： Alan Kaluev
Translation:Luyao
Review：Professor John Moraros、Professor Alan Kaluev
11 Sep 2025