The UNT College of Science is pleased to welcome Dr. Fanju Meng to the UNT Biological Sciences department as one of their newest Assistant Professors. Using zebrafish embryos as a powerful model system, Dr. Meng's lab will study genetic and epigenetic control of gene expression during embryogenesis.

"I think my research complements existing research that is being explored in the College of Science, and there are lots of opportunities to collaborate with multiple research teams here at UNT," said Dr. Meng, who earned his PhD in genetics at the University of Rochester. "My long-term goals are to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying embryogenesis, and I hope that my research will contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of birth defects."

Beginning in Spring 2025, Dr. Meng will also be teaching genetics classes which will focus on fundamental principles of genetic structure and inheritance.

"I aim to mentor my students to become motivated lifelong learners, and I am excited to foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment both in the classroom and within my lab," he said. "I hope I can help them to succeed in whichever career path they choose."