Dr. Cheng (Jack) Song joined the Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology on February 1, 2024, as an Assistant Professor, bringing a distinguished background in polycystic kidney disease (PKD) research. His academic journey includes a solid foundation in PKD, acquired during his Ph.D. studies under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley K. Yoder at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Further enriching his expertise, Dr. Song joined Dr. Andrew P. McMahon’s laboratory at the University of Southern California (USC), where he contributed to pioneering a novel stem cell-derived human disease model. This work, in collaboration with Amgen, provided him with valuable insights into the pharmaceutical industry, enhancing his PKD research.
Dr. Song has emerged as a leading figure in the study of human renal diseases, particularly through his innovative use of next-generation, stem cell-derived human kidney organoids. His investigations into injury-induced inflammatory mechanisms in PKD, alongside the development of a high-throughput stem cell-derived human kidney organoid model system for studying cyst development, have positioned him at the cutting edge of his field. His groundbreaking research has led to the identification of new genes involved in cystogenesis and the discovery of a potent cyst-blocking compound. This notable achievement earned him the title of top postdoctoral fellow in Amgen-sponsored programs in 2022.
At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Dr. Song is set to enhance interdisciplinary collaborations across various departments and centers. Leveraging his profound knowledge in stem cell biology, kidney disease, and drug discovery, he aims to propel research and mentorship, contributing significantly to the university’s dynamic research landscape.
Q: Do you have any particular experiences, interests, or passions that have shaped you as a researcher?
A: One of the key experiences that shaped me as a researcher was my time working with human pluripotent stem cell derived kidney organoids. This innovative approach opened new avenues for understanding kidney diseases and inspired my current research focus.
Q: What do you hope to achieve with your current research? How did you come to specialize in your particular field of research?
A: With my current research, I hope to develop advanced models for studying renal diseases and exploring potential therapies. My focus on kidney organoids stemmed from a fascination with regenerative medicine and the potential to revolutionize how we study and treat kidney disorders.