Politics ASIA, CELL, CHINA, CITIZENSHIP, COMPUTER SCIENCE, DIEGO, INSTITUTE OF MOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGY, INSTITUTE OF MOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGY AT SHENZHEN BAY LABORATORY, MEXICO, NATURE, NORTH AMERICA, ROBOTICS, SCIENCE_TECHNOLOGY, SHENZHEN BAY, SHENZHEN BAY LAB, SHENZHEN BAY LABORATORY, UCSD, UNITED STATES, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO, US, WANG, WANG JING Dante Raeburn July 7, 2025 0 Comments

Neurobiologist Wang Jing Returns to China as Director at Shenzhen Bay Lab

Wang Jing leaves the US to lead Shenzhen Bay Laboratory.
He resigns from UC San Diego after 20 years of service.
Wang aims to foster innovation and collaboration at the institute.
He has published over 50 papers in renowned journals.
One notable paper revealed the neuroscience of lust using fruit flies.

Wang Jing’s Move Marks New Career Chapter

In a significant move for the scientific community, neurobiologist Wang Jing is transitioning back to China after two decades in the United States. He has accepted the directorship of the Institute of Molecular Physiology at Shenzhen Bay Laboratory. Prior to this, he served as the chair of the neurobiology department at the University of California, San Diego, where he established a prominent career.

Plans and Aspirations for the Institute

Wang’s return to China is not merely a change of scenery but represents a shift towards a broader ambition in research. His plans for the institute include not only concentrating on molecular physiology but also fostering innovative research practices. Since taking on the role, he has immersed himself in the institute’s work, reviewing the papers of young principal investigators to understand their research efforts thoroughly, akin to the habits he cultivated during his tenure at UCSD.

Wang’s Contributions to Neuroscience

Throughout his career, Wang has been a prolific contributor to neuroscientific literature, boasting over 50 publications in reputable journals like Nature and Cell. Notably, his research has gained international recognition; a landmark paper, published in Nature in February 2022, utilized the fruit fly model to explore the intricate neuroscience behind lust. This kind of pioneering work exemplifies Wang’s dedication to advancing our understanding of complex behaviors.

Wang Jing’s departure represents a noteworthy shift as he embarks on leading the Institute of Molecular Physiology in Shenzhen, blending his extensive experience with a commitment to nurturing emerging researchers. His work has gained accolades, particularly his insights into neuroscience, showcasing the potential for further contributions in his new role. This move signals a pivotal moment in both Wang’s career and the ongoing evolution of neuroscience research in China.