Chuqing Sun is a bioinformation with a bachelor's and Ph.D. in Bioinformatics from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China. During her Ph.D. the research focused on the distribution and survival characteristics of gut bacteriophages from a population perspective. In our lab, Chuqing will be responsible for tracking the gut microbiome (bacteria and viruses) changes in humans and model animals during diabetes and aging. She will be using multi-omics methods to analyze pathological patterns and identify potential key pathogens for diseases. 

How come you decided to work in our lab and what are you hoping to learn from working with us? 
"I have been following this lab's publications throughout my research career, and they have always been a guiding direction for me. The lab conducts cutting-edge research and is also closely connected to clinical applications. I hope to develop more agile scientific thinking, gain broader knowledge about microbiology, and acquire more integrated bioinformatics and experimental approaches for scientific research."

What are your impressions from the lab and the city of Gothenburg/Sweden?
"The lab has a very friendly and supportive atmosphere, and I appreciate how approachable everyone is. One small challenge is getting used to the different communication styles, but it’s also a good learning experience. I chose a very comfortable season to come to Gothenburg. The people, culture, and environment here are all great, and life here is very chill."

 How would you explain your research to someone who is not familiar with science?
"There are billions of microorganisms living in our gut, which directly or indirectly impact your health. Everyone has different types of gut microbiota, depending on the individual's condition. I aim to study the distribution and function of gut microbiota to identify disease-related microorganisms for early warning and potentially even for disease treatment."

How come you choose this field of science?
I’m fascinated by how invisible microbes have such a big impact on our health and the environment. I wanted to be part of a field that’s both fundamental and applicable.

What would you like to achieve with your science (for yourself and/or others)?
I hope my work can contribute to understanding how the microbiome influences health and eventually lead to better preventive strategies or treatments. Personally, I also want to grow as an independent scientist.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in research?
"Don’t be afraid of negative results. If you are 100% sure you haven’t made any mistakes, there must be a more interesting reason behind it."

 If you could change one thing about the way people understand science, what would it be?
"I would want people to understand that science is a process of trial and error, not a straightforward path. Discoveries often come from unexpected places and require persistence and an open mind."

Anything to share about life/time outside lab?
I enjoy relaxing at home or outdoors when I’m not working. I like making drinks, searching for good food, and going for walks.

Finally, what do you do to promote a healthy gut microbiome and/or health in general?
I try to eat a diet rich in fiber and fermented foods, avoid unnecessary antibiotics, and maintain regular physical activity.

Welcome - we are looking forward to working with you and to get to know you better!