Dr. Zhi Chun Lai

Professor

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Biography

Zhi-Chun Lai is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Penn State University, specializing in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Lai completed his Ph.D. at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1989, following an M.S. in 1985 and a B.S. in 1982 from Peking University. His research focuses on signal transduction pathways, particularly the Hippo signaling pathway, which regulates tissue growth and organ size during animal development. Lai's work has shown that defects in cellular signaling can lead to cancer. His laboratory discovered the role of the Mob tumor suppressor in Hippo pathway modulation. He has collaborated with multiple laboratories to elucidate the roles of various protein kinases involved in growth regulation and the conservation of these mechanisms from flies to humans. Zhi-Chun has received several prestigious awards for his contributions to education and research, including the Global Classroom Award and the Faculty Travel Award from Penn State. His research has significant implications for understanding cancer development through the lens of cell signaling.

Research Interests

Requirements for Pennsylvania State University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:23
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
Prerequisites
Master's degree in related field for PhD Baccalaureate degree from accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Writing Sample
  • Official Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE scores are highly recommended but not strictly required for Applied Linguistics.