Robinson Meng, Undergraduate Student
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For a long time, the nature of living things was seen as a profound mystery—a system governed by pathways too complex or sacred for human interference. However, with the emergence of cell and gene engineering, we have gained the ability to modify biological systems with the precision of machines or computer programs. I believe this capability represents humanity's path toward a longer, healthier lifespan.
This future was first revealed to me at Dr. Andras Nagy’s lab within the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute. Since joining the lab in 2025 as an undergraduate thesis student, and continuing now as a Master’s student, I have worked on pioneering methods of cell and gene editing aimed at developing novel cell-based therapeutics.
Prior to this, I participated in a summer research exchange program at the National University of Singapore under Dr. Shi Jiahai. Our research focused on optimizing red blood cell production by managing the expansion and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells.
Outside of the lab, I am an avid writer and explorer, with a particular fondness for discovering the quiet, hidden corners of the university and the city.
