As a Ph.D. candidate in chemical biology at Peking University’s College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering (CCME), I navigate two worlds with equal passion: the precision of laboratory research and the artistry of classical music. Under the guidance of Professor Xing Chen, my work focuses on the identification and functional studies of UDP-glucose-interacting proteins. Every day in the lab is a puzzle—whether optimizing reaction conditions or analyzing the data, I thrive on the meticulous process of turning hypotheses into discoveries.
Beyond the lab bench, I have served as the first violinist in the Peking University Symphony Orchestra since 2022. The discipline required to master complex concertos—from Sibelius’s soaring cadenzas to Tchaikovsky’s intricate harmonies—mirrors the rigor of scientific inquiry. In 2023, our orchestra’s performance of Dance of the Yao People earned the Best Performance Award at the Beijing College Student Music Festival, a testament to countless hours balancing rehearsals with late-night lab sessions. Performing at milestone events like PKU’s 125th Anniversary Gala and the Central Party School’s cultural exchange program has taught me to communicate ideas not only through data but also through shared emotional experiences.
My role as CCME’s Graduate Student Union President further enriched my journey. Organizing the 5th National Frontier Forum on Chemical Biology stands out as one of my proudest achievements. Coordinating with 14 universities and hosting over 2,000 participants demanded strategic planning and adaptability—skills honed through both group rehearsals and multi-step chemical syntheses. Initiatives such as the Chemistry Star Awards and Lunchtime Seminar Series emerged from addressing peers’ needs, whether guiding first-year students through research bottlenecks or connecting seniors with industry mentors.
These roles—researcher, musician, and student leader—may seem distinct, yet they share a common thread: building connections. Just as chemical bonds form the foundation of matter, the relationships forged through lab collaborations, orchestra performances, and campus initiatives have shaped my PKU experience. Whether troubleshooting experiments with classmates, harmonizing with fellow musicians, or brainstorming outreach strategies with faculty, I have learned that progress thrives on collective effort.
As I approach graduation in July 2025, I carry forward CCME’s spirit of interdisciplinary exploration. The lab taught me to ask “how,” the stage inspired me to ask “why,” and leading my peers compelled me to ask “who else needs to join this conversation.” At PKU, I have discovered that science and art are not opposites—they are complementary languages for understanding our world.
