Dr. Lei Xing completed his undergraduate and masters studies at the medical school of Jilin University, China. His strong interest in neuroscience led him to University of Ottawa, where he studied neuroestrogen regulation by neurotransmitters in the adult brain during his Ph.D, under the supervision of Dr. Vance Trudeau. To further understand the role of hormones and neurotransmitters in the developing brain, Dr. Xing joined the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG) in Dresden, Germany in 2016, as a postdoctoral researcher. In Dr. Wieland Huttner’s lab, his work using mouse, ferret and human organoid has identified a novel role of serotonin as an extrinsic factor to promote basal progenitor proliferation in the developing human neocortex and also linked the enhanced memory flexibility to the expanded neocortex induced by the human-specific gene ARHGAP11B. In September 2023, Dr. Xing joined the Department of Biological Sciences at University of Manitoba as an Assistant Professor, his research is focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of placental factors on brain development, evolution and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Ho In (Charlie) Shin
Master’s Student
Charlie completed his undergraduate studies in Genetics (Honours) at the University of Manitoba. Having developed a keen interest in molecular biology and developmental neuroscience, he has chosen to pursue research as a graduate student. His research focuses on the role of GDF15-regulated downstream genes on the development of the neocortex.
Erica Wong
Undergraduate Student
Erica is an undergraduate biology student with a strong interest in the cellular and molecular processes found in the developing brain. Her project focuses on using molecular cloning techniques to study the influences of gene overexpression in the embryonic mouse neurodevelopment.
Kalan Azaransky
Undergraduate Student
Kalan Azaransky is an undergraduate Microbiology student. He has developed a strong foundation in molecular biology, immunofluorescence, and microbiological techniques and is currently working on a research project aiming to isolate and study honey bee neurons. His academic passion lies in antibiotic resistance research, and he is eager to contribute to innovative solutions in this growing field. Kalan is known for his attention to detail, strong collaborative skills, and adaptability in fast-paced lab environments. He is always eager to learn new techniques and approaches, and takes initiative to improve his technical and scientific problem-solving abilities. Outside the lab, Kalan enjoys reading, exploring Winnipeg’s restaurant scene, and spending time venturing outdoors.
Shirley Morris
Honours Student
Shirley is pursuing an honours degree in Biological Sciences through the Evolution and Biodiversity theme. They have many interests within biology and are currently working on a project examining the role of GDF15 in the human placenta using trophoblast organoids. Shirley also likes cats, watching movies, and knitting.
Aya Tuma
Honours Student
Aya is a fourth-year biology student interested in all aspects of human prenatal development. Her project focuses on changes in the molecular mechanisms governing fetal brain development in Down syndrome. If she’s not in the lab, you’ll likely find her enjoying the sun or animal watching.
Deepanshi Sharma
Undergraduate Student
Deepanshi is a biology undergraduate with a strong interest in developmental neuroscience. She is focused on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of brain development and neural differentiation, and is passionate about contributing to neurodevelopmental research through both academic study and lab experience.
