To recognize the contributions postdoctoral researchers make to Case Western Reserve University—and their respective fields—The Daily has partnered with the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs on a new monthly series. Know an outstanding postdoc making an impact at CWRU or in their field? Nominate them to be featured in this series.
Since arriving at Case Western Reserve University in the fall of 2022, Fangfang Wang hasn’t hesitated to make a mark in her field. A postdoc in the Department of Pharmacology at the School of Medicine, Wang has authored 11 papers to date, nine of which she was the first or co-author.
Her most recent publications include papers titled “Physiology and pharmacological targeting of phase separation” and “A novel sorbicillinoid compound as a potent anti-inflammation agent through inducing NLRP3 protein degradation.”
Wang is a member of Professor Youwei Zhang’s lab, where she has worked since arriving on campus. Prior to coming to CWRU, Wang earned master’s and doctorate degrees from Jinan University (Guangzhou, Guangdong, China).
Ultimately, Wang hopes to become a principal investigator leading research on fighting cancer worldwide.
Get to know Wang better in this Q&A.
1. What’s your best piece of advice on how postdocs can make the most of their postdoc career and prepare for their future goals?
Making the most of a postdoc position is crucial for career development and future success. I think yo need to clearly know what you want to do and set up a goal once you start out in your postdoc career. Take action immediately and make good use of your time; don’t put off till tomorrow what should be done today.
Meanwhile, collaborate with other researchers both within and outside our institution. Engage in interdisciplinary projects to broaden your skills and perspectives. Effective communication is key in collaborations, so work on honing your presentation and writing skills.
2. How do you think the postdoctoral experience at CWRU is helping you prepare and advance toward your goals?
The postdoctoral experience at CWRU has helped me become more independent in my research. I have undergone extensive training at CWRU, encompassing both technical skills and the cultivation of independent thinking in research.
Throughout my time here, I have had the privilege of interacting with numerous individuals who have been invaluable sources of support, aiding me in both my research endeavors and personal life. Working as a postdoc at CWRU has marked a fantastic beginning to my academic career.