Professional Experience:

2023-now Assistant Professor Southern University of Science and Technology
2019-2023 Postdoctoral associate Yale University School of Medicine, with Dr. Pietro De Camilli
2018-2019 Research fellow National University of Singapore, with Dr. Lu Gan

Educational Background:

2013-2018 Ph.D. National University of Singapore (Advisor: Dr. Lu Gan)
2009-2013 B.S. Beijing Normal University

ORCiD Bluesky

My research focuses on the functional mechanisms of the ATG2 protein, with a primary focus on using cryo-ET to investigate organelle interactions.

Outside the lab, I enjoy reading mystery novels and love traveling with friends.

(A small wish: to eat my way around the world!)

2024-now Ph.D student Southern University of Science and Technology

Research interests: In situ structural and functional analysis of lipid transfer protein at organelle contact sites, and chromatin architecture in plant cells.
Personal hobbies: fitness, playing video games, cooking.

Future plans: Deepen practical expertise in cryo-ET to enhance scientific problem-solving and drive impactful discoveries.

2022-now M.S. student Southern University of Science and Technology

It's said that every lab will arrange a student who is stupid and knows nothing to reduce the frustration of ordinary students after failing experiments. But what confused me was that after failing the experiment 8 times, I looked around the lab and was still unable to discover who could reduce my frustration.

2023-now M.S. student Southern University of Science and Technology

Hello! My name is Liu Si. My research focuses on studying the structure and function of bridge-like lipid transfer proteins, like ATG2, to better understand their roles in cellular processes.

Outside the lab, I'm passionate about exploring good food (a hobby that keeps me motivated through long experiments!), gaming with friends, and rollerblading.

2023-now M.S. student Southern University of Science and Technology

My name is Chen Ruipeng from Xiangyang, Hubei Province. I am passionate about photography and hiking.

2024-now M.S. student Southern University of Science and Technology

I am a master's student in the Cai Lab, primarily engaged in structural biology research. In my future work, I aim to further explore the complexity of intracellular structures and contribute to a deeper understanding of the life sciences.

In addition, I have a great passion for food—I enjoy exploring different cuisines and savoring the experience of eating.

2023-now Ph.D student Nankai University

My work primarily involves experiments focused on cellular mitochondria.

In my free time, I enjoy walking and listening to music.

2025-now Visiting Scholar Southern University of Science and Technology

Hello! My name is Yanan Sheng. My research explores how specialized proteins help organize and regulate communication within sensory systems.

Outside the lab, I enjoy watching movies and hiking—activities that help me relax and often spark fresh inspiration for my research.