Hi! My name is Ren Jie and I previously studied in NUS and obtained a BSc in Physics (Hons) with a specialization in Medical Physics. I am currently pursuing my PhD at University of Manchester in the department of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine.

My current research looks at the impact of radiotherapeutic levels of ionizing radiation on extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins to investigate their possible role in exacerbating long-term normal tissue effects of breast cancer radiotherapy. In particular, I am looking at the molecular, structural, and mechanical changes to breast tissue ECM after radiation. Our lab group is also developing a novel mass spectrometry analysis tool based on differential peptide yields post-enzymatic digestion to investigate structural changes to these large ECM proteins.

Besides lab work, I also enjoy going on hikes occasionally (given Manchester’s proximity to a lot of nature reserves) with the school’s hiking club and recently had my first experience hiking in snow!