From 2017 to 2023, I spent nearly six years at School of Biomedical Sciences (SBS), which included three years of PhD study followed by three years of postdoctoral work, all under the supervision of Prof. Stephen Tsui. This period stands out as the most productive and memorable phase of my life before turning 30. Currently, I am employed as a research assistant professor in the Department of Health Technology and Informatics at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University since last July. Despite this new role, I often miss my time at SBS.

Prior to my PhD at SBS, my academic journey began with a major in biological science at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, which was followed by studies in virology at Peking University. It was after years of struggling with molecular biology experiments that I found my passion for genomics and bioinformatics, thanks to Prof. Tsui’s patient guidance. I recall initiating my PhD project on mite allergy, which led us to collaborate with a Thai team cultivating a specific mite species. Prof. Tsui’s prompt action in booking flights to Bangkok allowed us to conduct important experiments and obtain valuable samples for our genomics research. Our collaboration with the Thai researchers continues today.

With the support of my supervisor and colleagues over those six years at SBS, I was involved in numerous projects, particularly focusing on genomics and allergy. Our pioneering work on the comparative genomics of astigmatic mites, a major cause of human allergies, laid an important genomic foundation for studying and managing these organisms (Molecular Biology and Evolution, 2022). We also completed significant studies on various mite species and their associated allergies (Allergy, 2020; European Respiratory Journal, 2021; Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 2023; Clinical and Translational Allergy, 2023; Allergology International, 2024), and our team unveiled a high-quality genome of the American cockroach, identifying several novel allergens (Allergy, 2022). More recently, I have applied my expertise in genomics and bioinformatics to microbiology and infectious diseases (Frontiers in Microbiology, 2023, mSphere, 2023; mSystems, 2024), aiming to make contributions to clinical diagnosis.

Reflecting on the six years, I see many significant changes in both my professional and personal life. I evolved from a PhD student uncertain about the future to a junior principal investigator. On the personal aspect, my girlfriend became my wife, and we were blessed with a beautiful daughter recently. My time at SBS was enriching in every aspect, and I am deeply grateful to Prof. Stephen Tsui, Prof. Alfred Cheng and my colleagues for their kindness and support. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to visit SBS again!

Dr.Xiong Qing (left) and Prof. Stephen Tsui (right)

Dr.Xiong Qing with his wife and daughter