Welcome, Jingbang, to our convergence environment AUTORYTHM, could you tell us a bit about yourself? What is your background?
Prior to Oslo I did my PhD at the University of Warwick as part of the EPSRC CDT in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems, looking into the modelling of nanoscale fluids. In particular, we used fluctuating hydrodynamics as a theoretical framework to predict the dynamics of nanoscale thin liquid films, and then used numerical simulations (either solving the equations numerically or molecular dynamics simulations) for validation. We also used the rare event theory to predict the rupture of thin films driven by thermal fluctuations. Before Warwick I did a MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing at the University of Oxford, and my thesis was on the impact of global warming on El Niño-Southern Oscillation. I received BSc in Mathematics from the University of Manchester and Shandong University (2+2 program).
What will you work on in AUTORHYTHM?
I will be working on developing mathematical models for cell membrane bending, which is a key part of the autophagy process. The model will be benchmarked against experimental results provided by other members of the AUTORHYTHM project, and will hopefully provide insights into the biology and physics behind autophagy. I will also work on developing molecular dynamics models of cell membranes, which is one level up in complexity and will hopefully fill the gap between the highly simplified mathematical models and the sophisticated real cells.
What are your expectations for working on such an interdisciplinary project?
I hope to broaden my horizon, learn to look at problems from different angles and strengthen my collaboration skill with scientists from different disciplines. I have always believed that a model, unless tested in real life, will always be a fantasy, and this project offers the great opportunity to work closely with biologists, musicians and data scientists on a model that can explain a real-world problem and have a real-world impact.