Dr. Xianrui Cheng

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Xianrui Cheng is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Southern California. He obtained his Ph.D. in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics from Duke University in 2012. His research interests focus on the spatial organization of the cytoplasm and its link to physiological functions and cell identity. Cheng's work explores the dysregulation within cellular structures, particularly the microtubule cytoskeleton and endoplasmic reticulum networks, and how these disruptions are associated with various neurological diseases and developmental disorders. He uses frog egg extracts as a model system to study the de novo generation of cytoplasmic spatial architecture, aiming to uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, he seeks to understand these mechanisms to inspire the design of synthetic biological systems.

Research Interests

Systems Biology Cell Biology Biochemistry Biophysics Self-Organization Cytoplasm Physics of Living Systems Biological Signaling Developmental Biology Origin of Life

Experience

Postdoctoral Researcher

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Conducted research in the field of biological sciences focusing on cellular organization.

Research Scientist

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Worked on basic life research related to cellular structures and their implications for health.

Courses

BISC 502B. Molecular Genetics Biochemistry BISC 502A. Molecular Genetics Biochemistry BISC 372. Cell Biology BISC 542. Seminar in Molecular Biology BISC 544. Advanced Reading in Molecular Biology

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.