We are pleased to announce the appointment of Qian Wang, PhD, as Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Washington University School of Medicine.
Research Focus
Dr. Wang’s research focuses on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms that govern eye development, with the goal of translating this knowledge into innovative therapies for ocular disorders. Her current work delves into how abnormal mTORC1 signaling in the lens contributes to Anterior Segment Dysgenesis (ASD), a developmental condition that affects the front part of the eye and can lead to vision loss. In future research, Dr. Wang will expand her investigations to explore other signaling pathways, to further understand the signaling network that impact eye development and disease.
In addition to her work on lens development and pathogenesis, Dr. Wang is particularly interested in lacrimal gland development and homeostasis. Lacrimal gland is also known as tear gland, and therefore it is directly relevant to dry eye disease, a common and chronic ocular disorder that affects millions of people. So far, there are no permanent treatments for dry eye disease, so a potential therapeutic method would be to regenerate a healthy LG and transplant it into affected patients. Thus, Dr. Wang’s study of LG development will shed light on the regenerative medicine for the treatment of dry eye disease.
Her long-term goal is to apply advanced genetic techniques, such as CRISPR-mediated gene editing, to develop potential therapies for a range of eye diseases. Dr. Wang’s cutting-edge research holds the potential to revolutionize treatments for patients with complex ocular conditions.
Academic Journey
Dr. Wang completed her PhD at the University of Alberta, where she made significant contributions to the understanding of channel proteins and their role in cellular function. During her postdoctoral training at Columbia University, she further honed her expertise in eye development, specifically focusing on Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) signaling in the development of the lacrimal gland and lens. Her work has been published in top-tier journals and presented at international conferences, earning her recognition as a rising star in the field of ophthalmic research.
Mentorship and Contributions
Beyond her research achievements, Dr. Wang is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of scientists. She has guided students at various stages of their academic careers and remains committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative research environment.
We are excited to have Qian Wang, PhD join our faculty and look forward to the contributions she will make to the future of vision research.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Wang to WashU Medicine Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences!