My lab studies how interesting and poorly understood membrane proteins sense and respond to the environment.

We study proteins through the lens of structural biology and pharmacology, aiming to both understand how they function on the molecuar level and to drug them in the context of human health and disease.

We are specifically interested in protein receptors that sense and respond to sex hormones and various other sterols

Zifang earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry, specializing in drug screening and the intricate mechanistic studies of DNA topoisomerases.

Drawn by the enigma of the sigma-2 receptor, he transitioned to Dr. Alon's lab to delve deeper into its role in cellular signaling pathways. His current focus revolves around uncovering the partner proteins of the sigma-2 receptor and evaluating the cellular impacts of various sigma-2 receptor ligands.

Beyond the lab, Zifang is a passionate hiker, always eager to explore new corners of the globe.