Dr. Fengrong Wang
Assistant Professor
Biomedical Sciences
Education
BS, Biochemistry, State University of New York at Oswego
PhD, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University
Past Experience
After earning her PhD, Dr. Wang was a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Michigan and remained at that institution for the past three years as a research investigator.
Research Areas
Dr. Wang’s research area applies biochemistry and molecular biology tools to study the parasite Toxoplasma gondii with a particular focus on the parasite’s protein synthesis pathway and the molecular mechanisms governing its transition from the acute to the chronic stage of infection. This is an important area of research since no vaccines or treatments currently are available that target the chronic stage. This poses a significant global health challenge since one-third of the world’s population is affected by this parasite.
Teaching Areas
Dr. Wang will teach BMS3290 – Physiology and Functional Anatomy of Domestic Animals.
Interesting Fact
Although fascinated by biochemistry and molecular techniques since her first exposure to this area as an undergraduate, Dr. Wang says she stumbled upon her current research focus. During postdoctoral training she was studying Toxoplasma gondii when her work centered unexpectedly on the parasite’s protein synthesis pathway, a relatively understudied area.
Dr. Wang says…
“This area of study has proven deeply interesting. By understanding how the parasite synthesizes proteins differently from its human hose, we can develop novel strategies to combat it. Given the vast number of people living with a chronic Toxoplasma infection, finding ways to prevent the establishment of or eliminate the chronic stage is critical. I hope my research will contribute foundational knowledge for future therapeutics.”
January 2026