I have been incredibly fortunate to be guided by many outstanding mentors, each leaving an indelible mark on my journey. I remember every one of them and the words and wisdom they shared with me.

Some of these mentors are official, with our relationships documented through graduate theses, offer letters, and research affiliations—each connection a branch on the academic family tree.

Yet, many others have been unofficial mentors, guiding me with the same care and dedication as their own trainees. These mentorships have profoundly enriched my experience and shaped my vision for mentoring my future trainees.

Prof. Ying-Shing Chan (my official Ph.D. advisor):

Ph.D. advisors play a pivotal role in shaping our academic lives and ways of perceving this career. I’ll never forget Prof. Chan sitting beside me, meticulously refining my slides, and preparing me for presentations. His encouragement during one of my first journal club presentations (2011) presenting a paper on “place cells” —when he exclaimed, “This is the best oral presentation I have ever seen, in my entire career, so clear and logical”—remains one of the most cherished compliments I’ve received. It was a moment of validation that fueled my confidence and drive. 

Prof. Yi Zhang (my official Postdoc mentor):

Yi is a biggest name in Epigenetics. He has shaken this area by characterizing so many fundamental proteins in Epigenetics. Many describe Yi as a demanding PI, but I see him as someone who truly loves science. He is a pure scientist! His passion is infectious, and he hopes we share in that same fervor. I vividly recall him telling me that, “based on your publication record alone, I might not even considered me for an interview. However, it is your motivation and deep interest in science that impressed me, and this is more important than anything else”. His words were a powerful reminder of what truly matters in our work. 

Prof. C. Ronald Kahn (my official Postdoc mentor):

To the world, Ron is a godfather-like figure in diabetes and insulin research. There are too many things one could say about his huge contributions to the world and mentorship. But to me, he is more like a father or grandfather, a mentor who offered unwavering support during some of my most challenging times (visa, marriage, family, failures, etc). I opened up to Ron about my struggles with family, research, and the pressures of pursuing independence. He responded with compassion, helping me navigate these difficulties in a way that few mentors would. For his kindness and guidance, I am deeply grateful. 

Dr. Karoline Sulek (my non-official mentor):

Karoline was my managing PI during my visit to Denmark, and her words have had a lasting impact on my career. She once told me that she would never sacrifice her trainees for her own career success—a principle that speaks to her integrity. Our daily lunches together, with all the labmates, were a highlight, a time of connection and learning that I will always treasure.

Dr. Cristina Legido-Quigley (my non-official mentor):

Cristina is the reason I applied for the Novo Nordisk grant. She excels in both Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes research—she is the best scientist in this very area, and her mentorship has been a source of immense joy. Despite not being my official mentor, she has supported my growth in countless ways, from co-applying for grants to hosting my visits. I look forward to collaborating with her for the rest of my independent career.

Dr. Elizabeth Rhea (my non-official mentor):

I have been blessed with three exceptional female scientists as unofficial mentors, and Elizabeth is one of them. Although our mentorship is not formalized on paper, she has gone above and beyond in supporting my career—whether it’s grant writing, paper critiques, co-chairing sessions, or introducing me to esteemed PIs. Elizabeth’s guidance has been as comprehensive and dedicated as that of any official mentor, and for that, I am profoundly thankful.