Dr. Xin Li

Associate Professor

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Biography

Xin Li is an Associate Professor in the Neuroscience Program at Illinois University. His research focuses on understanding neural development, particularly the regulation of gene expression in neural progenitors. His lab investigates how these progenitors are temporally patterned to generate neural diversity—a fundamental question in developmental neurobiology. Using Drosophila as a model organism, Li’s team employs various genomic and genetic techniques to explore the expression patterns of transcription factors required for the sequential generation of distinct neural types. The research aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that underpin the complexity of adult neural structures and the intricate temporal patterning of neural progenitors. Notably, he has identified a significant set of transcription factors that are expressed in a defined sequence during the development of the Drosophila medulla, an area involved in color processing. These discoveries shed light on the mechanisms driving neurogenesis and the generation of neural diversity.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

— Present

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign • Urbana, IL

Researches neural development and gene regulation in neural progenitors.

Awards

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Lincoln Excellence Assistant Professors (LEAP) Award

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Helen Corley Petit Scholar

Requirements for University of Illinois

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:19
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:103
GRE General
Prerequisites
Mathematical background Linear Algebra Calculus
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE is optional for admission to all graduate programs in Statistics. Full status admission requires higher language scores than limited status.