PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
jennkong [at] uw [dot] edu
Twitter/X: JennKong07

Bio: I was born and raised in beautiful Honolulu, Hawaii. I became interested in science after I spent a summer at the University of Hawaii catching crustaceans on the beach and using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to examine their central nervous systems. Excited to learn more, I pursued a PhD in Neuroscience at UCLA, where I studied signaling pathways and their role in spinal cord development. As a postdoc at Stanford University, I pivoted to Biochemistry and focused on developing a sensitized screening system to identify novel regulators of the Hedgehog signaling pathway.

Science Focus: As a new Assistant Professor (Jan 2023!) at the University of Washington, I am excited to study the molecular mechanisms that underlie signaling sensitivity. My overall goal is to understand how individual cells modulate their response to environmental cues via a remodeling of proteins at their cell surface. Advances in this area will provide new insights into embryonic development and regeneration.

What brings me joy: The company of family and friends, supporting trainees with grant writing assistance, being inspired by the Leading Edge Fellows group, crisp western blots, good poke bowls, and cute cat videos.

POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR
pragya09 [at] uw [dot] edu

Bio: I grew up in New Delhi (India). Initially, I decided to study Biology in high school because I dreamt of becoming a physician, but during a lab visit, I fell in love with wet lab research instead. For this reason, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences followed by a master’s degree in Biotechnology. I became interested in protein biochemistry during my master’s thesis work where I worked with parasitic proteins to help identify novel inhibitors. Eager to learn more, I pursued my doctoral studies at the University of Edinburgh (UK). I used biochemistry and cell biology to study the regulatory role of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) in the maintenance of centromere identity, which is essential for accurate cell division.

Science Focus: During my graduate research, I came to appreciate the importance of the tight control of different cellular processes to prevent disorders. During my post-doc in the Kong lab, I am excited to study the regulation of cellular signaling pathways that control embryonic development. I am particularly interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms modulating hedgehog signaling sensitivity.

What brings me joy: Spending quality time with my family and loved ones is my favorite thing to do. I also enjoy cooking (I especially like trying out new recipes I find online) and occasionally like to go on long walks to explore new places like – bookstores, coffee shops, restaurants, and farmer’s markets.

BIOLOGICAL PHYSICS, STRUCTURE AND DESIGN (BPSD) GRADUATE STUDENT
leigao [at] uw [dot] edu
Joined Summer 2023!

Bio: I was born in Wuhan, China. I became interested in science as an undergraduate, when I volunteered in a neurobiology laboratory, studying changes in the central nervous system of Alzheimer’s Disease and Fragile X Syndrome. Desiring to learn more, I pursued a master’s degree in Neuroimaging and Informatics at USC and worked in a neuroanatomy lab at UCLA, where I studied human brain imaging, neural connectivity in the mouse, and their changes in neurodegenerative diseases. I am excited to learn more about molecular mechanisms and de novo protein modulations in my pursuit of a Ph.D. in BPSD at UW.

Science Focus: I am excited to study the molecular mechanisms of embryogenesis, morphogen regulation, cell communication, and relative diseases. I am particularly interested in the nervous system. My overall goal is to understand how neurons are differentiated from stem cells, how they respond to environmental factors, and how they build connections to form networks for functions.

What brings me joy: Baking and cooking, exploring Seattle activities and food, hanging out with families and friends

CHEMISTRY GRADUATE STUDENT
Joined Winter 2024!

Bio: I was born and raised on the beautiful Island of Maui in Hawaii. My interest in chemistry came during my sophomore year of my undergraduate degree where I had the privilege of working in an organic chemistry lab. We used chemical instrumentation and concepts to study the amount of ozone reacting with the plasma membrane of Angiostrongylus cantonensis. After earning my Bachelor's of Science in Cellular and Molecular Biology, I continued my education in chemistry and continued research to prepare for a graduate degree. At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, I had the opportunity to look at the link between oligomerization and folding of proteins, specifically leptin. In my graduate studies, I hope to focus on using chemical techniques to study the mechanism behind biological systems, specifically looking at signaling pathways and protein-protein interactions.

Science Focus: I am excited to learn new biochemical techniques and to expand my understanding of how to use chemical techniques to further biological research. During my rotation, I will be using a new cell line to see if the addition of hedgehog causes components of the MMM complex to be elevated at the cilia.

What brings me joy: I enjoy spending time with friends and family, finding and trying new cuisines and restaurants, enjoying the beautiful nature of the Pacific Northwest, exploring and traveling to new places, and finding new anime tv shows that I have not yet seen.

BIOCHEMISTRY GRADUATE STUDENT
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY TRAINING GRANT (CMBTG) RECIPIENT!
Joined Spring 2024!

Bio: I was born and raised around the greater Seattle area. My interest in science started early in middle school during my first chemistry class. In high school I was searching for careers that geared towards my interests and decided I wanted to pursue biomedical research. This led me to obtain my B.S. in biochemistry at the University of Washington. During my undergraduate studies, I did research investigating how genetics influence the risk of osteoporosis. I chose to continue my academic journey at UW because of my love for research and desire to become an independent scientist.

Science Focus: I am excited to further my knowledge of biochemistry and developmental biology! Specifically, I plan to learn more about the Nodal signaling pathway and investigate its effect on left-right patterning using the gastruloid model, an innovative system involving embryonic stem cell aggregates that mimic gastrula-stage embryos.

What brings me joy: Spending time with my family and friends, music, eating good food, TV shows, traveling

RESEARCH SCIENTIST
MCNAIR SCHOLAR
NIH/NIGMS SUPPLEMENT RECIPIENT

Bio: I was raised in Bellevue and Renton, WA since I was 8 years old. In 2023, I graduated from the University of Washington as a Molecular Cellular Developmental (MCD) Biology Major. I became interested in science during my time in Biology 200 where we learned about embryogenesis, signal transduction pathways and cellular differentiation. I am excited to dive into these topics from a biochemical perspective!

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT

Bio: I was born in Taiwan but moved to and raised in Shanghai at four. I am a junior majoring in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology here at UW. I am interested in science since middle school and that interest had continued to grow ever since. I decided to pursue biology in high school after our biology teacher showed us a documentary about CRISPR-Cas9, talking about how it would be a promising technique once it matured, which made me more passionate about the cellular level of the mechanism under such technique. And now: SCIENCE IS MY LIFE!!!

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT

Bio: I was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. I am a senior at Redmond High School, and plan to major in Biological Sciences on the pre-med track. Through taking courses like AP Biology and AP Chemistry, as well as participating in various science competitions, I've been able to nurture my love for science and lab work.

Science Focus: This is my first experience working in a research lab, and I'm excited to learn new techniques and start my own project. I love learning about new concepts in the applications of biochemistry, so I'm looking forward to researching embryonic development at the lab!

What brings me joy: Going out with friends, watching movies with family, doing henna, reading and baking banana bread!

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
ISCRM SUMMER RESEARCH FELLOW
MARY GATES RESEARCH SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Bio: I was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. I’m currently a junior at the University of Washington majoring in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCB) and hopefully Biochemistry as well. I initially became interested in science when I attended a science fair back in middle school and presented a project on different methods of water purification. I’ve loved science ever since!

Science Focus: This is my first experience in a research lab so I’m excited to be able to learn and collaborate with the amazing people in the Kong lab! In the future, I’d love to study more about the Hedgehog signaling pathway and its implications on embryo development!

What brings me joy: Trying out new restaurants, spending time with friends and family, crochet and my two lovely cats!

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
MARY GATES RESEARCH SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Bio: I’ve lived in Denver, Colorado all my life. I’m an undergraduate at UW with an intended major in biology. I fell in love with science, and more specifically biology when I was 8 and my older brother let me help him with his science project about sickle cell anemia. I’m currently on the pre-dental path, dreaming of one day becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with a specialty in pediatrics.

Science Focus: I don't have previous research experience outside of this lab so I am just excited to soak up everything I can within the Kong Lab. I have a passion for science and an even stronger desire to learn. In the future, I want to research the genetic mutation of cleft lip and palate and the functional variant that leads to the defect.

What brings me joy: I love being surrounded by my loved ones and spending quality time with them. I also enjoy curling up with a good book, exploring bookstores, coming up with new baking recipes, and trying out different coffees, teas, matcha, and really any fun drink.

RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Currently: Graduate Student at UW!

Bio: I was born and raised in Santa Cruz, California where I developed an early interest in biology through science fairs and high school classes. Wanting to explore somewhere new, I found myself in Bellingham at Western Washington University where I fell in love with my chemistry courses and earned my Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. While there, I worked in the Dahlberg research lab studying the roles of proteins in ER-Associated Degradation in C. elegans, discovering my love for scientific research. Wanting to one day attend graduate school, I’ve joined the team in hopes of expanding my technical abilities and laboratory knowledge!

Science Focus: Having been in a lab with genetics focus previously, I look forward to exploring my interest in biochemistry further! I will be working on projects surrounding regulation of cellular differentiation, the effects of Notch signaling on adherens junctions proteins, and the genetic and environmental influences on the development of hydrocephalus.

What brings me joy: My friends, family, and animals (pets and in general) first. I love spending time outdoors, playing piano, cooking, a good movie or podcast, a long walk, and exploring the city!

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
Currently: Graduate Student at NYU!

Bio: I was born and raised in the Seattle area but have lots of family in Oahu. I am currently a senior at the University of Washington majoring in Public Health. I am hoping to pursue medical school and also do clinical research in the future. My passion for science came from my love of nature and taking biology and chemistry classes in high school.

Science Focus: I am currently researching sexual dimorphism in mustelids by analyzing mandibles at the Burke museum. I am excited to be a part of the Kong lab and especially the opportunity to work with stem cells and signaling pathways. In the future, I want to do research on what causes Endometriosis and find future cures because I am very passionate about women’s health.

What brings me joy: I love playing beach volleyball and doing karaoke with my friends and family. I also love hiking and going to the beach and bodysurfing.

MCB GRADUATE STUDENT
(Rotated Spring 2024!)

Bio: I was born in Mumbai, India, but raised in the USA. I lived in the Bay Area until I was thirteen and then moved to Seattle, where I have primarily resided since. I pursued my bachelor's degree in Cell and Developmental Biology at Smith College, and my interest in research initially blossomed when I took a class on stem cells and their applications in disease modeling. My fascination with stem cell and regenerative biology continued to grow in subsequent post-baccalaureate research experiences. This led me to pursue a master's degree in biochemistry at George Washington University to learn more about the molecular pathways underlying development and diseases. Motivated by a desire to advance my understanding of stem cell and molecular biology and learn crucial skills to self-direct my own research efforts I joined the Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) program at the University of Washington. I am excited to continue to explore these research areas in greater depth and gain new laboratory skills during my current rotation in the Kong lab

BPSD GRADUATE STUDENT
(Rotated Winter 2024!)

Bio: I was born in California and moved a lot, but I spent the most time growing up in Portland, Oregon, where I also went to high school. Growing up I loved the sciences and wanted to become an engineer and invent whatever I could imagine. However, in high school, I got the most practical experience in Biology and Chemistry and learned that life has a bunch of interesting phenomena that have yet to be understood. This spurred my pursuit of a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry at the University of Washington. Currently, as a first-year student in the Biological Physics, Structure, and Design (BPSD) Ph.D. program at UW, I am eager to delve into developmental biology, utilizing fluorescent techniques like FISH and advanced imaging methods to explore cellular development patterns.

Science Focus: My research interest is captivated by the molecular mechanisms of cellular regulation, morphogen regulation, cell communication, and related diseases. Presently, in my lab rotation, I aim to deepen our understanding of the patterning defects caused by mutations in the MMM complex. This will be achieved through the application of RNA-FISH and imaging at different stages of mouse embryonic development.

What brings me joy: Spending quality time with my family and friends is my favorite, but I also enjoy cooking (especially trying out new recipes I find online and don’t have the ingredients for), exercising (biking, hiking, volleyball, really anything), and taking care of my plants!

MCB GRADUATE STUDENT
(Rotated Winter 2024!)

Bio: I was born in Moscow, Russia. I became interested in science after taking biology and organic chemistry classes at a community college. Experiencing the excitement of contributing to discoveries and ceaseless opportunities for obtaining new knowledge and skills during my undergraduate research inspired me to pursue a career in scientific research. After graduation, I worked in three different labs at Fred Hutch to prepare for a graduate program. In my latest position, I investigated nuclear envelope rupture and repair.

Science Focus: I am interested in developmental biology and regenerative medicine. I used immunofluorescence techniques to study the regulation of the nuclear envelope. I would like to apply these techniques to explore cell differentiation and organogenesis. During my rotation, I am excited to investigate the role of the MMM complex in the left-right pattering of the heart in Xenopus tropicalis.

What brings me joy: Good books, evening tea with desserts, playing guitar, immunofluorescent images with low background, exploring Seattle neighborhoods, going to farmers markets

BIOCHEMISTRY GRADUATE STUDENT
(Rotated Fall 2023!)

Bio: I was born in Riverside, California, but was raised on both coasts as I spent my early years in Pennsylvania and my teenage years in Orange County, California. After developing a strong passion for chemistry in high school, I went on to earn my B.S. in chemistry at the University of California, San Diego, where I quickly realized that my interests were more geared toward the realm of biochemistry. Specifically, I studied the mechanistic underpinnings of mRNA localization to the mitochondria in yeast.

Science Focus: Having had prior experience working with yeast, I am excited to add to my scientific repertoire and work with more complex organisms. In the same vein as my prior research, I am interested in studying both mechanism and regulation of biological processes, so I hope to investigate the MMM complex and mechanisms associated with sonic hedgehog signaling in my time at the lab. I would also be curious to dive further into genetic factors influencing cell signaling sensitivity.

What brings me joy: I love spending time with my friends and family (including my cats and dogs, of course). I also like making new friends, trying new foods, listening to music, and going to the gym.

BRIGHT-UP SCHOLAR
(OFF TO COLLEGE FALL 2023!)

Bio: I was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. I am currently an upcoming freshman at George Washington University, and I plan to major in psychology. Science Focus: This is my first experience working at a research lab so I am excited to learn as much as possible and build that experience. I feel like this is a great opportunity to learn more about how to create my own projects and work in a research lab.

What brings me joy: I love traveling, spending time with friends, listening to music, my dog, and playing ultimate.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
(GRADUATED 2023!)

Bio: I was born in Mumbai, India and came to Seattle to pursue my undergraduate journey. I am a senior at University of Washington, Seattle, majoring in Bioengineering and minoring in neural computation and engineering. I have been interested in medicine for as long as I can remember but my interest in coding only began when I took Java classes in middle school. My love for engineering grew thereafter.

Science Focus: I hope to use technology to revolutionize scientific processes. I am passionate about finding healthcare solutions to make it more accessible and inclusive. My past research experiences include in silico modelling of EGF molecular signalling pathways in the brain to provide better understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. I also worked at UW Medicine for a year and honed my immunohistochemistry and genotyping techniques.

What brings you joy: Seattle summers, paddle boarding and hiking, farmers markets, lavenders, alpacas, cats, matcha, chai, korean food