Dr. Shasha Chong

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Shasha Chong is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Science and Technology of China in 2008 and went on to complete her Ph.D. at Harvard University in 2014. Since joining Caltech in 2021, her research has focused on the interface of chemistry, physics, and biology, specifically on molecular mechanisms that underpin fundamental cellular processes. Dr. Chong's work explores intrinsically disordered regions in proteins, which constitute a significant portion of the eukaryotic proteome and are crucial for numerous cellular functions. Her primary research goals include understanding the rules that govern the interaction behaviors of these regions and elucidating their roles in gene transcription under various conditions, including cancer and diabetes. In her lab, she develops novel live-cell imaging techniques that combine genome editing with biochemical, genomic, proteomic, and bioinformatic approaches to achieve high-resolution visualization of biomolecular interactions in physiological conditions.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

2021-01-01 — Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Conducting research in chemistry, focusing on molecular mechanisms in cellular processes, and teaching undergraduate students.

Courses

Biochemistry Laboratory Biophysical/Structural Methods Advanced Topics in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics

Requirements for California Institute of Technology

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong background in mathematics and physical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Most Caltech graduate programs are PhD-only. GRE General and Subject tests vary by department; many have made them optional or no longer accept them.