Open to opportunities

Zhen Wang

@zhenwang

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Molecular Diagnostics Scientist with expertise in clinical biomarker development.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that fosters innovation in molecular diagnostics and offers opportunities for professional growth.

I am a CM Board-certified Specialist in Molecular Biology with over a decade of experience in molecular diagnostics, clinical research, and translational oncology. My expertise lies in developing, validating, and implementing laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) for precision oncology, including IHC, FISH, RNA ISH, and methylation assays. I have contributed to Phase I/II clinical trials, biomarker discovery, and companion diagnostics (CDx) development, and I am recognized for my innovation in RNA-based diagnostics, including a U.S. patent and SBIR grant.

Throughout my career, I have successfully integrated clinical and genomic datasets using R for healthcare analytics. I have led translational research initiatives that focus on the discovery and validation of novel biomarkers in precision oncology, particularly in hematologic malignancies. My work has resulted in high-impact publications and significant advancements in diagnostic precision for various conditions. I am bilingual in English and Chinese, which enhances my ability to collaborate effectively in diverse teams.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Research Associate

Current

Cleveland Clinic

Nov 2015 - Present (9 years 9 months)

Pioneered and patented an ultrasensitive RNA in situ hybridization assay, securing SBIR funding and translating this innovation into high-impact publications directly relevant to hematologic malignancy diagnostics. Led translational research initiatives, leveraging R programming to integrate molecular and clinical data for the discovery and validation of novel biomarkers in precision oncology, wit

R Programming Hematologic Malignancy Diagnostics Multiplex Ligation Dependent Probe Amplification Sanger Sequencing

Associate Staff

Cleveland Clinic

Dec 2014 - Present (10 years 8 months)

Contributed to the design and execution of biomarker-driven clinical trials, including studies on circulating tumor cells and ALK/ROS1 screening. Standardized and optimized immunohistochemistry (IHC) and FISH protocols, ensuring inter-laboratory reproducibility and strict adherence to CLIA and CAP regulatory compliance.

Immunohistochemistry (IHC)FISH Protocols Regulatory Compliance Inter Laboratory Reproducibility

Research Associate

Cleveland Clinic

Aug 2011 - Present (14 years)

Led the development and clinical validation of advanced molecular diagnostic assays (e.g., methylation arrays, FISH, RNA ISH) for precision oncology, including applications in lymphoma and other cancers. Oversaw DNA/RNA extraction and quality control for large-scale research and clinical studies, ensuring high-quality genomic analysis for diverse sample cohorts.

Methylation Arrays FISH Quality Control Genomics Clinical Validation Lymphoma Diagnostics

Postdoctoral Fellow

Cleveland Clinic

Feb 2007 - Present (18 years 6 months)

Developed and applied FISH and RNA in situ hybridization assays that significantly improved diagnostic precision for various conditions, including hematologic disorders and solid tumors. Collaborated effectively with surgical pathologists to translate novel research tools into practical diagnostic applications, directly enhancing real-world patient impact.

FISH Assays Hematologic Disorders Surgical Pathology Collaboration

Postdoctoral Fellow

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Sep 2006 - Present (18 years 11 months)

Conducted early-stage research on cancer biomarkers, utilizing gene expression and functional assays to investigate molecular mechanisms of disease.

Early Career Research

Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University & Kunming Medical

Sep 2000 - Present (24 years 11 months)

Performed foundational research in cancer biology, including studies on NDRG1 in breast and colorectal cancer progression, utilizing in vitro, xenograft models, and clinical sample analysis. Involved in teaching histopathology and mentoring medical students.

NDRG1 Colorectal Cancer Xenograft Models Histopathology Teaching

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University

Ph.D., Molecular Pathology of Cancer

Completed a Ph.D. in Molecular Pathology of Cancer, focusing on advanced research in cancer biology. Gained expertise in molecular mechanisms of disease and translational research.

Kunming Medical University

M.S., Molecular Pathology of Cancer

Obtained a Master of Science degree in Molecular Pathology of Cancer. Focused on foundational research in cancer biology, including studies on NDRG1 in breast and colorectal cancer progression.

Binzhou Medical University

Bachelor of Medicine, Clinical Medicine

Completed a Bachelor of Medicine in Clinical Medicine. Involved in teaching histopathology and mentoring medical students, gaining a strong foundation in clinical practice.