Yingfu Li

Dr. Yingfu Li is a Professor at the McMaster School of Biomedical Engineering, leading a research group focused on functional nucleic acids (FNAs), including DNAzymes and aptamers. His work spans diagnostics for pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, Clostridium difficile), biosensor development, and applications in healthcare and environmental monitoring.

• Research Interests: Molecular diagnostics, aptamer engineering, RNA-cleaving DNAzymes, and biosensor technologies.
• Key Projects: Development of point-of-care tests for infectious diseases, including SARS-CoV-2 variants and foodborne pathogens like Salmonella.
• Collaborations: Partnered with institutions like the Soleymani Lab and companies like Zentek Ltd. for translational research.
• Lab Dynamics: Maintains a collaborative, interdisciplinary team with a focus on innovation and mentorship, as highlighted in lab retreats and student testimonials.

Publications emphasize high-impact applications in biosensing, including electrochemical and colorimetric platforms, with recent work addressing viral variant detection and nanomaterial integration.