We are really excited to introduce the newest member of our editorial team: Owen Ouyang! Currently a PhD candidate, Owen is deeply committed to leveraging the power of molecular biology for diverse applications in health and biotechnology. He is a graduate student advisor for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign chapter of American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. As part of his responsibilites, he has organized seminars with invited speakers from other universities. Together, these experiences with senior scientists have shaped his view of how effective mentorship helps launch the careers of young researchers. As a member of eLife and the eLife 2025 Ambassador cohort, Owen aims to promote conversations about how we can improve the way we mentor our younger peers.
In a few sentences, could you introduce yourself, tell us where you are (both geographically and along your career path?) and what you study?
Owen Ouyang (OO): Hi there! My name is Owen Ouyang, and I am a biochemistry graduate student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I grew up in Beijing, China, and then moved to the United States during college. I spent four years in St. Louis, Missouri, then moved to Illinois in 2021 after I completed my bachelor’s degree in biology. I started my graduate school studies on the molecular evolution of viral antigens, with the hope of making my own contribution to the fight against COVID-19. Now, my research focuses on developing new platforms that can accelerate our understanding of antibodies, one of our key defenses against pathogens.
What do you enjoy the most about being a scientist?
(OO): One thing I enjoy the most about being a scientist is the immense possibilities that lie within my work. I wake up every day feeling that I might be working on something no one has explored before. I often find joy not only in moments of discovery but also in the process itself, from designing experiments to interpreting unexpected results. Perhaps some of those findings will provide valuable insights into understanding biology and treating diseases in the future!
What do you see as your key challenge as a scientist? OR what is the greatest scientific challenge you have overcome so far?
(OO): One of the biggest challenges for me as a scientist is keeping a healthy work–life balance. Research never really ends — there’s always one more experiment, one more analysis, one more idea to test. I used to think working nonstop was the only way to make progress, but I’ve learned that knowing when to stop is just as important as knowing when to keep going. Picking up hobbies outside the lab has really helped me reset, and interestingly, those moments often spark new ideas or give me a fresh perspective on my work. It’s still something I’m learning, but I’ve realized that balance actually makes me better at what I do.
What is the main change that you would like to see in the scientific community?
(OO): I would like to see transformative changes in mentorship. Effective mentorship is key to the success of early-career researchers. However, the traditional advisor/committee-based systems can create barriers, as access to quality mentorships is not always available to the mentees. There can be mismatches in personalities and research philosophies along the way, which eventually lead to ineffective mentorships, which can not only hinder development but also lead to struggles on both the personal and professional levels. I believe it doesn’t have to be this way. As an ecrLife editor, I would like to be an advocate of open mentorship within and beyond my community.
What motivates you to communicate science?
(OO): There are several reasons why I am motivated to communicate science. First, I really enjoy talking about science with others. From casual conversations to teaching, I am enthusiastic about sharing my passion and sparking others’ interests in science. I also feel immense joy in helping others. Now, I believe that science communications are more important than ever, and I hope to make a broader impact on my peers as well as my communities.
What is your favorite thing about ecrLife?
(OO): My favorite thing about ecrLife is the editorial team! Though I have just joined the team, it’s been great knowing everyone as a new member, and I believe together, we can make amazing things happen.