Reno Xu Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow
Reno is a postdoctoral fellow in the lab and is the current recipient of the UC Davis Comparative Lung Biology and Medicine T32 training grant. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology before completing his Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. Reno’s work seeks to illuminate the complex pathobiology of pulmonary fibrosis. Specifically, Reno is passionate about decoding the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms that drive macrophages—key immune cells—to contribute to the scarring process in the lung. Outside of the lab, Reno is a dedicated long-distance runner who applies his scientific training to the sport, developing evidence-based strategies to optimize his performance and endurance.
Hangjiang (Hank) Ren Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow
Hangjiang is a postdoctoral researcher in the lab. He earned his Ph.D. at Peking Union Medical College. His research explored the epigenetic regulation of adipose tissue thermogenesis, with studies involving tRNA-derived small noncoding RNAs, histone methyltransferases, and DNA methylation. He also participated in research on osteoporosis and fatty liver disease. Hangjiang is particularly interested in inter-organ crosstalk, and he is excited to join the Chen lab to explore lung biology. Outside of the lab, Hangjiang enjoys cooking and hiking.