Yuming Jiang, a first-year Ph.D. student at Syracuse University, has made a significant contribution to the field of physics by publishing groundbreaking research on protein interactions in the Journal of Physical Chemistry. This achievement stands out as an extraordinary accomplishment for an undergraduate, potentially transforming how scientists predict drug-protein interactions.
Originally from Nanjing, China, Jiang was drawn to Syracuse by its vibrant community and engaging academic environment. His journey in scientific research began when he shifted from a mathematics major to physics after taking an introductory course. Under the guidance of professor John Laiho, Jiang assisted with computational work in high-energy particle physics, which ignited his passion for the subject and led him to pursue a double major.
In the summer of 2024, Jiang’s talents were recognized by professor Liviu Movileanu, who invited him to join a biophysics research program. Collaborating with assistant teaching professor Antun Skanata, Jiang focused on understanding the dynamics of protein interactions with cell receptors, a critical aspect of cellular communication.
Innovative Approach to Protein Interaction Research
Proteins play a key role in how cells function, acting as messengers that facilitate communication both internally and externally. At the surface of cells, receptor proteins interact with ligands—other proteins that trigger various cellular actions. The challenge lies in predicting how these interactions fluctuate, depending on various factors such as concentration and binding strength.
To tackle this complex issue, Jiang and his team employed an innovative mathematical model based on queuing theory, traditionally used to analyze waiting lines. By simulating how proteins bind to receptors in a queuing format, they were able to create a system that predicts receptor occupancy based on binding rates and concentrations.
Their findings uncovered unexpected complexities. In a simple model with three competing proteins, altering the amount of one protein significantly impacted the interactions of the others. This insight parallels how one person cutting in line can affect the wait times of others. For more intricate systems, the team developed a “coarse-grained” model that simplifies calculations while maintaining accuracy.
By providing a quantitative framework for predicting how multiple signaling molecules compete for receptor binding sites, Jiang’s research can enhance our understanding of cellular signal processing. This could have substantial implications for drug development, as it may allow scientists to predict how drugs interact with target proteins, potentially expediting the research process and reducing the need for certain human trials.
A Legacy of Academic Excellence
Jiang’s publication is not an isolated achievement. He has received several accolades, including the Euclid Prize for promising mathematics majors and the Erdős Prize for excellence in mathematical problem-solving during the prestigious Putnam Competition. He was also honored as a 2025 Syracuse University Scholar, the institution’s highest undergraduate accolade.
His success embodies Syracuse University’s commitment to fostering undergraduate research that contributes to global scientific advancements. By connecting students with faculty engaged in pioneering research, the university creates a unique environment that encourages discovery beyond traditional classroom settings.
“Working with undergraduates like Yuming is incredibly rewarding,” says Skanata. “It was a joy to see him succeed, and I look forward to his future contributions as he taps into the immense potential that he carries within.”
For Jiang, research has been a transformative component of his academic journey. “Engaging in research as an undergraduate allows you to explore various fields without the intense pressure faced by graduate students,” he notes. “It provides the freedom to discover genuine interests and build essential skills.”
As he continues his Ph.D. studies, Jiang reflects on the foundational skills and confidence he gained during his undergraduate experience. “I love the process of problem-solving,” he explains. “Being immersed in a challenging issue and methodically working toward solutions is what drives me to advance science.”
In summary, Yuming Jiang’s innovative research on protein interactions not only highlights the potential of undergraduate contributions to scientific discovery but also sets a precedent for future students at Syracuse University and beyond.
