New Faculty Members Join Biological Sciences and Statistics
08-27-2024
The Department of Biological Sciences is pleased to welcome two outstanding new faculty members for the 2024-25 academic year.
Dr. Boran Gao earned his Ph.D. in Biostatistics from the University of Michigan in 2024 before joining us here at Purdue. His research is dedicated to advancing statistical methods and computational tools for genetic and genomic studies. Gao’s work addresses the challenges posed by large-scale, high-dimensional datasets, including those from Biobanks and diverse functional genomic sources. He is particularly focused on reducing health disparities in these datasets, which have historically underrepresented non-European populations. Through his innovative approach, Gao aims to deepen our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of complex traits and diseases across a broad spectrum of human populations. Gao is appointed to biological sciences 75% and statistics 25%.
Dr. Geyu Zhou received his Ph.D. in Computational Biology, followed by postdoctoral training in Biostatistics at Yale University. His expertise lies in statistical genetics and computational biology. Zhou’s current research centers on developing robust and efficient statistical methods for genetic risk prediction across diverse populations, contributing to more accurate and inclusive predictive models. Zhou is appointed to biological sciences 75% and statistics 25%.
Interim Department Head Peristera Paschou shared her enthusiasm for the new arrivals: “We are thrilled to welcome these two outstanding faculty members to our department, especially in the rapidly evolving field of computational and statistical genomics. Their work will be crucial in driving forward our mission to address complex health challenges through innovative and interdisciplinary approaches and aligns perfectly with two of Purdue's major strategic initiatives: One Health, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, plant, and environmental health, and Purdue Computes, advancing Purdue to the forefront of Computing and Artificial Intelligence and their applications.”
We are excited to have Dr. Gao and Dr. Zhou join our department and look forward to the significant impact their research will have on our academic community and beyond. Please join us in welcoming them to Purdue!
About the Department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University
Purdue Biological Sciences is the largest department in the Life Sciences at Purdue University. As part of Purdue One Health, we are dedicated to pioneering scientific discoveries and transformative education at the cutting edge of innovation.From molecules to cells, from tissues to organisms, from populations to ecosystems - we bring together multiple perspectives, integrating across biological scales to advance our understanding of life and tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. Learn more at bio.purdue.edu/.
Writer: Alisha Referda, areferda@purdue.edu
Source: Boran Gao, gao824@purdue.eduGeyu Zhou, zhou1633@purdue.edu