Shih's Lab/Neuropathological laboratory
Research Field
After receiving my Ph.D. from National Cheng Kung University in 2015, I joined Kaohsiung Medical University, where I am currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy.
My academic career has been driven by a passion for neurobiology. I specialize in the study of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Frontotemporal Dementia, and Parkinson’s Disease. By leveraging my expertise in animal behavioral functional assessment and neuropathology, my laboratory aims to bridge the gap between basic mechanistic research and potential clinical insights.
My research primarily investigates how exercise interventions can delay or ameliorate the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Our work focuses on the intricate roles of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the glymphatic system, and mitochondrial function. Specifically, we focus on vascular dementia and proteinopathies, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Our laboratory employs a comprehensive range of methodologies, including:
Animal Behavioral Assessments: Evaluating memory and muscle function.
Neuropathology: Histomorphological analysis of brain tissue.
Biochemical Assays: Standard molecular and biochemical techniques.
To adapt to the evolving landscape of data-driven research, we are also developing image segmentation techniques for histomorphology. This allows for more efficient and precise evaluation of pathological images. We are actively seeking motivated students and early-career scientists from diverse backgrounds to join us in fostering innovative ideas and interdisciplinary collaboration.
To investigate whether exercise improves the blood-brain barrier and glymphatic system impairment by Irisin/PGC-1α/Nrf1 dependent mitochondria biogenesis in hypertension and other neurodegenerative diseases
1. 2020 Outstanding Research Award, Kaohsiung Medical University, 2020
2. 2020 Excellent Monthly Paper Award in November, Kaohsiung Medical University, 2020
3. Poster Honorable Mention, 2017 The Taiwan Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
4. Excellent Research Award, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University. 2014 June.
5. 2014 LiFu Medical Research, Culture, and Education Foundation Academia Award, Second place award,Taiwan Dementia Society
1. Ph.D. 2009 - 2015
Department of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
2. M.S.:2008 - 2009
Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
3. B.S: 2004 - 2008
Department of Biological Resources, National Chiayi University, Chiayi, Taiwan
Job Description
Research Intern, Neurodegenerative Diseases
Training & Professional Development
We provide a comprehensive academic training program for all interns. Upon joining, you will be required to complete foundational certifications, including:
Laboratory Safety Training
Laboratory Animal Care and Use (IACUC) Training
Research & Animal Ethics Education
Core Responsibilities & Skill Acquisition
Interns will participate in weekly lab meetings and receive hands-on technical training tailored to our research projects. You will gain proficiency in:
Behavioral Assessments: Cognitive-related animal behavior testing.
Wet Lab Techniques: Tissue sampling, sectioning, and immunostaining.
Advanced Imaging: Tissue image acquisition and high-end microscopy operation.
Data & Analysis: Basic pathological interpretation, introductory programming (Python or Java), and data analysis.
Academic Enrichment
To foster scientific growth, interns will participate in weekly Journal Clubs, engaging in brief, structured discussions of recent academic literature to stay at the forefront of neurodegenerative research.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
Prior experience with basic biological laboratory techniques and a solid understanding of lab safety protocols is preferred.
Master, or PhD preferred
Skill sets or Qualities
Prior experience in the skills listed above is a plus, though not a requirement.
We welcome all motivated candidates to apply.
Job Description
Histopathology Research Intern, Neurodegenerative Diseases,
Training & Professional Development
We provide a comprehensive academic training program for all interns. Upon joining, you will be required to complete foundational certifications, including:
Laboratory Safety Training
Laboratory Animal Care and Use (IACUC) Training
Research & Animal Ethics Education
Core Responsibilities & Skill Acquisition
Interns will participate in weekly lab meetings and receive hands-on technical training tailored to our research projects. You will gain proficiency in:
Behavioral Assessments: Cognitive-related animal behavior testing.
Wet Lab Techniques: Tissue sampling, sectioning, and immunostaining.
Advanced Imaging: Tissue image acquisition and high-end microscopy operation.
Data & Analysis: Basic pathological interpretation, introductory programming (Python or Java), and data analysis.
Academic Enrichment
To foster scientific growth, interns will participate in weekly Journal Clubs, engaging in brief, structured discussions of recent academic literature to stay at the forefront of neurodegenerative research.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
Master’s degree or higher preferred (given the depth of involvement in research projects).
Skill sets or Qualities
Administrative Proficiency: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage research documentation and academic records efficiently.
Scientific Communication: * Familiarity with scientific presentation styles (e.g., creating and delivering research posters or slide decks).
Basic English communication skills; CEFR B1 level or higher is preferred.
Laboratory Experience (Optional): Prior experience in a biological laboratory setting is a significant plus but not required.