You Che: "Always nurture your curiosity and remain eager to learn"

As You Che recently joined HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, we took some time to ask him a few questions. Let's hear about his background, research interests, and visions for the future!

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is You CHE, and I am a Research Assistant Professor at the HKU-PRP.

I recently joined the team and am excited to be a part of this prestigious institution. My background is in microbiology, with a specific focus on the gut and skin microbiomes and their associations with health and disease.

What are your primary research interests?

My research primarily addresses the critical issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), utilizing a range of interdisciplinary techniques that combine both wet lab and dry lab skills. By integrating methods such as metagenomic sequencing, culturomics, and advanced computational algorithms, I aim to deepen our understanding of microbial resistance and their impact on human health, and I am dedicated to contributing to innovative solutions to combat AMR and improve overall health outcomes.

What are you looking forward to most as a Principal Investigator at HKU-Pasteur?

As a Principal Investigator at HKU-Pasteur, I am most looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed colleagues within the expansive Pasteur network. This unique environment offers an incredible platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, which is essential for tackling complex public health issues.

What specific projects do you plan to initiate in your new role?

I plan to initiate several projects focused on studying the microbiome and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in elderly populations. As the world experiences significant demographic shifts, with an increasing proportion of elderly individuals, it is crucial to address the unique health challenges faced by this vulnerable group.

One of my primary projects will involve a comprehensive analysis of the gut and skin microbiomes in elderly individuals, aiming to understand the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of AMR within these communities.

Another key project will focus on developing innovative strategies to combat AMR in elderly populations, exploring both preventative and therapeutic approaches. Specifically, we will leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to develop predictive models for AMR, enabling early detection and more precise application of therapeutic measures. Additionally, we will explore the use of phage therapy as a potential alternative to traditional antibiotics, aiming to target and eliminate resistant bacterial strains effectively.

Specifically, what areas of Immunology do you find the most exciting and why?

One of the most exciting areas of microbiology for me is the remarkable advancements in sequencing technology and the transition into the era of big data. These developments have revolutionized our ability to study microbial communities in unprecedented detail. With

high-throughput sequencing and comprehensive bioinformatics tools, we can now explore the vast diversity of microorganisms and their interactions within various ecosystems.

What are your top tips for students who wish to have a successful career in immunology?

For students aspiring to have a successful career in microbiology, I have three top tips:

1. Be curious and stay updated: always nurture your curiosity and remain eager to learn. Microbiology is a rapidly evolving field, so staying updated with the latest research and novel findings is crucial.

2. Leverage big data: Big data has become a cornerstone of modern microbiology. Think of it as mining for treasure, there are vast amounts of valuable information hidden within large datasets. Develop strong bioinformatics and data analysis skills to effectively unearth these insights.

3. Collaborate and discuss: engaging with people from diverse backgrounds can greatly enrich your research. Collaboration fosters interdisciplinary approaches, leading to more comprehensive and innovative solutions.

Get to know more about You Che here!