TEAM

Xinyao Miao

Postdoctoral Fellow

Institute of Biomedical Engineering

I am a postdoctoral fellow in Dr. Lan’s lab at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering. I obtained my doctoral degree in forensic medicine from Xi’an Jiaotong University, where I specialized in genomics, forensics, and bioinformatics. Currently, I am working on single-cell sequencing technology for microbial genomes, focusing on novel methodology development and its applications. When not working, I enjoy reading, traveling around the world, and spending time with my two beloved cats.

Jann Aldrin Gamboa

Graduate Student

Institute of Biomedical Engineering

I am a PhD student at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at University of Toronto. I obtained my undergraduate degree also from University of Toronto, where I pursued a double major in Biochemistry and Pharmacology. My research interests and goals are in understanding and manipulating the gut microbiome using ultrahigh-throughput experimentation for therapeutic and other applications. Outside of research, I enjoy hiking, online gaming, and reading Filipino novels!

Tereza Blahova

Graduate Student

Institute of Biomedical Engineering

I am an MASc student in the Institute of Biomedical Engineering. During my undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto studying Pharmacology and Global Health, I developed an interest in interdisciplinary research which led me to pursue graduate studies in biomedical engineering. My research is focused on developing ultrahigh-throughput microfluidics approaches for single cell genomic sequencing to help us characterize and understand microbial populations. Outside of the lab, I love playing volleyball and ultimate frisbee, playing the violin, and painting.

Tien Nguyen

Graduate Student

Institute of Biomedical Engineering

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts." - Winston Churchill

This quote resonates with me deeply, as it aligns with my main ambition. My love for engineering ignited when I was in grade 3. However, this passion truly blossomed during my Master's degree at National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan, shaping who I am today. After spending some time working as a former application scientist team member at Dolomite Microfluidic, I had the chance to learn and work with some of the most cutting-edge technologies available. However, as the saying goes, any party must come to an end. Now pursue my passion in Professor Freeman’s lab studying the latest microfluidic-related technologies and their real-life applications.

Kenny (Jiayi) Man

Graduate Student

Institute of Biomedical Engineering

I am a PhD student at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Toronto. I completed my undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Toronto, with a minor in Bioengineering. My research interests focus on integrating droplet microfluidics and computational tools to improve clinical diagnostics, such as antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). I am especially drawn to translational technologies that can move beyond the lab and make a direct difference in patient care. Outside of research, I enjoy playing tennis in the summer, skiing in the winter, and painting year-round.

Yuheng Chang

Undergraduate Student

Institute of Biomedical Engineering

I am a second year Engineering Science student at the University of Toronto with a focus on major in biomedical engineering. In the lab, I am currently working with Xinyao to help her with projects. I am driven by the usage of mathematical modeling to decode biological complexity and also the molecular biology. Outside of academics, I am keen on playing badminton, watching movies and tabletop role-playing games, where I enjoy fantastic world-building.

Chris Cao

Volunteer Student

Institute of Biomedical Engineering

I'm a volunteer student at the Lan Lab at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering. I pursued physiology and human biology at U of T for my undergraduate degree and am currently in M.Eng. I'm working on clinical microfluidic AST and the integrated machine learning platform. Outside of the lab, I like painting, watching musicals, and traveling with my dog.

Candice Wu

Undergraduate Student

Life Science

I am a first year undergraduate student with an interest in pursuing immunology and human biology. I currently live in residence after moving from Victoria, BC. During the summer, I am volunteering to help Jann with his project. Outside of the lab, I like to draw and do graphic design, as well as dance and playing the violin.

Ethan Lin

Undergraduate Student

Life Science

Hello! I’m a volunteer at the Lan Lab in my first year of undergraduate studies. I’m hoping to pursue studies in biochemistry and immunology at the University of Toronto. In the lab, I work with Jann to help with his projects. Outside of academia, I am a long time enjoyer of skiing, mountain biking, and also playing the violin!

Juliana Yuen

Undergraduate Student

Chemical Engineering

Hey! My name’s Julianna, and I’m a first-year engineering student intending to pursue biomedical engineering. I enjoy all things related to programming & biology! This summer, I’ll be working with Xinayo to develop algorithms & pipelines for genomic sequencing. Outside of research, I enjoy reading, listening to Italian music, and hanging out with family & friends.

Zhengyang Li

Volunteer Student

Electrical Engineering

I am interested in exploring the applications of AI, especially in the biological sciences. I enjoy asking questions like “why” and “what’s next” during research, which helps me think more deeply about problems and future directions. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, cooking, and chatting with others.