Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica

Yu-Ling Shih's Lab

Yu-Ling Shih
https://sites.google.com/view/yu-ling-shihs-group-ibc-academ/home

Research Field

Biology

Introduction

I study how bacteria grow and divide, combining genetic, imaging, and biochemical methods to uncover their fundamental mechanisms. My work often spans chemistry and physics, bringing new perspectives to microbiology. I also enjoy working with young researchers and helping them develop the skills and curiosity needed for scientific discovery.

We investigate the fundamental processes of bacterial cell growth and division, which are essential for bacterial life cycles. Utilizing both classical and advanced methodologies in genetics, imaging, and biochemical reconstitution, we examine how bacteria construct and remodel their cellular structures. By integrating multidisciplinary approaches, our objective is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that drive these processes. Our research not only enhances our understanding of bacterial physiology but also paves the way for innovative strategies to combat bacterial infections, linking fundamental science to medical advancements.


Research Topics

(1) Metabolic regulation of cell growth and division    
       Cell morphology, which is determined through the processes of growth and division, is regulated by the metabolic state of a cell. We investigate functional coupling between metabolism and cell growth and division. This is likely inherent in cell physiology to increase the environmental fitness especially under nutrient limitation.

(2) Bacterial cell wall synthesis and remodeling    
       Our goals are to explore complexity of the peptidoglycan (PG)-synthesizing proteins and surface glycosylation features. 


Honor

no recent activity to report.


Educational Background

University of Cambridge, UK   Ph.D. in Molecular Microbiology

National Taiwan University, Taiwan    M.Sc. in Plant Pathology

National Taiwan University, Taiwan    B.Sc.  in Plant Pathology


Job Description

The interns will actively participate in regular lab activities and conduct experiments under the guidance of experienced team members. At the end of the internship, they are expected to submit a written report and present their work during a lab meeting.

Preferred Intern Education Level

Senior college students or higher majoring in microbiology, biochemistry, or biophysics.

Skill sets or Qualities

  1. Background in microbiology, biochemistry, biological physics, or a related field.
  2. Willingness to engage in wet-lab experiments and learn modern research techniques.
  3. Comfortable working in a collaborative and dynamic research environment.
  4. Strong communication skills and proficiency in English reading and writing for scientific analysis and documentation.
  5. Fluent in English