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Jing Hughes is an Associate Professor at the Yale School of Medicine, where she conducts research as a physician-scientist. Her laboratory investigates the dynamic signaling functions of pancreatic islet cilia, which regulate insulin secretion and cellular communication. Utilizing genetic models and advanced imaging techniques, her lab has revealed that these organelles serve sensory motile roles in beta cells, which challenges the traditional view of cilia as static cellular structures. Her current research aims to understand how ciliary metabolic G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) integrate nutrient and paracrine signals, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets for diabetes and related metabolic diseases. Dr. Hughes is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and actively mentors students in the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP). Her significant contributions to islet biology have been recognized by the American Society for Clinical Investigation with the Young Physician-Scientist Award and the Midwest Islet Club's Robert L. Sorenson Prize.
GRE is optional for PhD applicants. TOEFL speaking scores below 26 or IELTS speaking below 7.5 may require summer English training.