MD/PhD Candidate at Saint Louis University School of Medicine,United States🎓
Di (Andy) Wu is a doctoral candidate in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, expected to earn his Ph.D. in Fall 2024. He also pursues his M.D. with an expected graduation in Spring 2027. Wu holds a B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. His research interests include osteoimmunology, T cell biology, and systems biology, with significant contributions to understanding bone quality and immune responses in osteoporosis. Wu has published several notable papers and has presented his research at multiple conferences. As an active mentor and leader in the American Physician Scientists Association, he is dedicated to fostering the next generation of scientists. Wu also engages in community service, facilitating support groups for families affected by mental health issues through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). His commitment to research and community makes him a promising figure in the biomedical sciences.
Professional Profile
Education 🎓
Di (Andy) Wu is currently a doctoral candidate in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, expecting to complete his Ph.D. in Fall 2024. He is also pursuing his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at the same institution, which he expects to receive in Spring 2027. Andy earned his Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in May 2017, where he graduated with high honors.
Work Experience 🏢
Andy has extensive research experience, serving as a Doctoral Candidate in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Saint Louis University since 2019. He has conducted significant research on the effects of estrogen loss on bone fragility and the therapeutic potential of pulsed RANKL in osteoporosis. Prior to this, he was a Summer Medical Student Research Assistant in 2018, where he worked with infectious agents, specifically the Rift Valley Fever Virus, and tested compounds for their efficacy against the virus. His undergraduate research at the University of Illinois involved studying the defense mechanisms of Salmonella Typhimurium against oxidative stress.
Skills 🔬
Andy possesses a strong background in molecular microbiology and immunology, with specific expertise in T cell biology, osteoimmunology, and systems biology. He has developed technical skills in handling BSL3 infectious agents, conducting in vitro experiments, and utilizing various research methodologies to investigate complex biological questions. His mentoring and leadership skills are demonstrated through his roles in various academic organizations.
Awards and Honors 🏆
Throughout his academic career, Andy has received several prestigious awards, including graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of Illinois, recognition on the Bronze Tablet for ranking in the top 3% of his graduating class, and achieving the Highest Distinction in Research and Academia for his senior thesis. These honors reflect his commitment to academic excellence and research contributions.
Membership 🌍
Andy is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Physician Scientists Association (APSA), the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association (APAMSA), and the American Society for Microbiology (ASM). His involvement in these groups showcases his dedication to the scientific community and his interest in promoting collaboration among peers.
Teaching Experience 👨🏫
As a Graduate Research Assistant, Andy has mentored undergraduate and medical students in their summer research internships, providing guidance and support in their scientific endeavors. Additionally, he serves as a peer mentor for students considering careers in medicine and science, sharing his experiences to help them navigate their educational paths.
Research Focus 🔍
Andy Wu’s research interests center on osteoimmunology, T cell biology, and bone quality, with a particular focus on understanding the mechanisms underlying bone fragility and postmenopausal osteoporosis. His work aims to explore the interplay between immune responses and bone health, contributing to the development of potential therapeutic strategies for bone-related diseases.
Publications :
- Memory T-Cells Contribute to Calcium Release from Bones during Lactation in Mice
Year: 2024
Journal: Nutrients
DOI: 10.3390/nu16193289
- T-Cell Mediated Inflammation in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Year: 2021
Journal: Frontiers in Immunology
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.687551