Dr. Weili Miao | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Weili Miao , Stanford , United States

Weili Miao is an accomplished postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University specializing in molecular biology and biochemistry. He obtained his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of California, Riverside in 2019 and holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Fudan University, China. Miao’s research integrates biochemistry, proteomics, and genomics to explore novel biomolecular interactions in the context of epidermal differentiation, RNA-protein interactions, and DNA-protein interactions. His work has significantly contributed to the understanding of glucose’s role in cellular regulation, as well as in uncovering new molecular mechanisms related to gene expression and differentiation. Miao has published extensively in high-impact journals and has received recognition for his contributions to the field of molecular biology, particularly regarding glucose-protein interactions and RNA regulation.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Weili Miao is an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” due to his groundbreaking contributions to the field of molecular biology. His research has provided crucial insights into biomolecular interactions, particularly in the context of glucose-protein, RNA-protein, and DNA-protein interactions. His postdoctoral research at Stanford University has led to the discovery of novel roles for glucose in regulating epidermal differentiation, including glucose’s interaction with key proteins like DDX21, DDX50, and NSUN2. Miao’s ability to integrate advanced techniques like MST, easy-CLIP, and PROBER into his work shows his innovative approach to solving complex biological questions. His prolific publication record in top-tier journals, such as Cell, Nature Communications, and Cell Reports, further highlights his ability to make significant contributions to molecular biology.

Areas for Improvements:

While Miao’s research focus has been diverse and impactful, one area for improvement could be to expand his studies to include more clinical or translational applications. This would enable his findings to have more direct implications for disease treatment or therapeutic interventions. Additionally, increasing his collaboration with clinical researchers and expanding his research network could help bring practical solutions to real-world problems.

Education:

Weili Miao holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of California, Riverside, where he completed his doctoral research in 2019. During his time at UCR, he honed his skills in chemical biology, proteomics, and molecular research. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Fudan University, one of China’s leading universities, where he developed a solid foundation in chemical analysis and molecular science. Miao’s education has equipped him with advanced research techniques in proteomics, molecular signaling, and biomolecular interactions, which he continues to apply in his postdoctoral work at Stanford University. His ability to combine cutting-edge technologies and experimental methodologies has enabled him to explore complex biological systems, making him a strong contributor to his research community.

Experience:

Weili Miao’s research experience spans several years, with a focus on biomolecular interactions and their implications in cellular differentiation and gene expression. He is currently a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University, where he investigates novel functions of glucose-protein, RNA-protein, and DNA-protein interactions. His work has led to breakthroughs in understanding how glucose regulates protein interactions that influence epidermal differentiation. Miao has utilized various advanced technologies such as microscale thermophoresis (MST), easy-CLIP, and PROBER to study protein-RNA and protein-DNA interactions. Prior to his postdoctoral position, he completed a Ph.D. at UC Riverside, where he explored targeted proteomic approaches and studied the AMP-binding capacities of kinases. Miao has also contributed to multiple publications in high-impact journals, showcasing his ability to lead and collaborate on groundbreaking research projects. His work continues to shape the understanding of molecular processes in cellular biology.

Awards and Honors:

Weili Miao has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding research contributions. He was awarded the K01 NIH Mentored Research Scientist Development Award in 2024, supporting his work as a principal investigator in the next phase of his research career. Additionally, Miao received the UCR Dissertation Year Program Fellowship in 2018-2019, which allowed him to complete his doctoral studies with distinguished achievement. In 2019, he was recognized with the Award for Chinese Outstanding Self-financed Students Abroad, which acknowledges exceptional academic and research accomplishments. These honors highlight Miao’s dedication to advancing the field of molecular biology and his exceptional ability to tackle complex scientific challenges. His recognition by these prestigious institutions underscores his potential to continue making significant contributions to biomedical research.

Research Focus:

Weili Miao’s research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular differentiation, gene expression, and interactions between biomolecules such as glucose, RNA, and DNA. At Stanford University, Miao’s postdoctoral work has identified novel functions of glucose-protein interactions, particularly how glucose binds proteins like DDX21, DDX50, and NSUN2 to regulate epidermal differentiation. His research also incorporates cutting-edge methods such as microscale thermophoresis (MST) to analyze protein interactions, easy-CLIP for RNA-protein interactions, and PROBER for DNA-protein interactions. Miao’s work is significant for its potential impact on therapeutic strategies for diseases related to gene expression and cellular differentiation. His multidisciplinary approach integrates proteomics, genomics, and biochemistry to explore how cellular processes are regulated at the molecular level, with the goal of identifying new molecular targets for disease intervention and improving our understanding of human biology.

Publication Top Notes:

1. “Disease-Linked Regulatory DNA Variants and Homeostatic Transcription Factors in Epidermis” 🔬💉 (Nat. Commun., under revision)
2. “DDX50 cooperates with STAU1 to effect stabilization of pro-differentiation RNAs” 🧬⚡ (Cell Rep., 2025)
3. “Glucose binds and activates NSUN2 to promote translation and epidermal differentiation” 🍬💪 (Nucleic Acids Res., 2024)
4. “Glucose dissociates DDX21 dimers to regulate mRNA splicing and tissue differentiation” 🍩🔧 (Cell, 2023)
5. “Targeted Proteomic Approaches for Proteome-wide Characterizations of the AMP-binding Capacities of Kinases” 🧪🧬 (J. Proteome Res., 2022)
6. “Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Revealed Broad Roles of N6-Methyladenosine in Heat Shock Response” 🔬🔥 (J. Proteome Res., 2021)
7. “Kinome Reprogramming During Radiation Resistance Acquisition in Breast Cancer Cells” 🧪💥 (J. Proteome Res., 2021)
8. “SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 Spike variants bind human ACE2 with increased affinity” 🦠🔬 (Lancet Infect. Dis., 2021)
9. “A Targeted Quantitative Proteomic Method Revealed Substantial Reprogramming of Kinome during Melanoma Metastasis” 🧬🌱 (Sci. Rep., 2020)

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Weili Miao is an exemplary researcher whose work continues to shape our understanding of cellular biology at a molecular level. His dedication to uncovering novel molecular mechanisms, as well as his use of cutting-edge technologies, positions him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued innovation and a broader focus on clinical translation, Miao’s work is poised to make a lasting impact on both the scientific community and therapeutic fields.