Kun Ling

Kun Ling, Ph.D., is a Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Mayo Clinic, with joint appointments in the Division of Nephrology & Hypertension. Her research focuses on phosphoinositide signaling, particularly the role of PIPKIγ in cell adhesion, migration, and cilia-mediated communication. She investigates links between phosphoinositide signaling and diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and ciliopathies. Her lab uses mouse models and human cell systems to explore mechanisms underlying these processes.

Education:

• BS in Marine Biology, Ocean University of China
• PhD in Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology
• Postdoctoral Fellowships at University of Wisconsin-Madison and Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology

Research Interests: Her work centers on phosphoinositide signaling pathways, including their roles in cell adhesion, cancer progression, heart development, and ciliopathies. She explores PIPKIγ’s interactions with structural and signaling molecules and its therapeutic potential.

Grants & Projects: She leads an active project funded by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs investigating cilium-specific phosphoinositide pathways in polycystic kidney disease.

Labs & Affiliations: Her lab is part of the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Robert M. and Billie Kelley Pirnie Translational Polycystic Kidney Disease Center, and multiple research programs.