Dr. Kathy Liu

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Biography

The Liu Lab is affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. The lab studies nucleic acid enzymes and biochemical discoveries that fuel cancer cures, focusing on how enzymes regulate gene expression differently in normal physiology compared to cancer biology. The research aims to discover unique biochemical mechanisms that underlie cancer vulnerabilities by combining deep mechanistic studies with innovative therapeutic development. Key areas of investigation include X-Y paired homologous proteins, cancer fusion proteins, ribosome biology, and the coregulation of enzyme-mediated modifications of RNA species. The lab strives to redefine molecular understanding that leads to new cancer treatments, bridging fundamental biochemistry with translational research. The goal is to forge a direct path from benchside discoveries to impactful clinical applications, fundamentally changing the approach to cancer treatment. The lab is actively seeking talented and passionate researchers, including postdocs, graduate students, undergraduate students, and research technicians, to join their growing team.

Research Interests

Experience

Principal Investigator

— Present

Kathy Liu Lab • Philadelphia, PA

Leading research on nucleic acid enzymes and their role in cancer biology.

Requirements for University of Pennsylvania

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.6
GRE General
Verbal
Required:162
Quantitative
Required:162
Overall
Required:162
GMAT
Total Score
Required:728
Overall
Required:728
TOEFL
Total
Required:115
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong quantitative background
Application Checklist
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Essays
Specialization Notes

Wharton Doctoral programs cover fields like Finance, Marketing, Management, and Operations, Information and Decisions.