Ming Li

Dr. Ming Li is an Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Facilities in the Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at the University of Michigan. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and a B.S. from Fudan University. His research focuses on lysosome biology, protein quality control mechanisms, and quantum technologies including quantum memories and quantum computing using rare earth ions and neutral atom arrays.

Research interests span cellular organelle function, quantum optics, and atomic physics, with particular emphasis on:

• Lysosome biogenesis and quality control pathways
• Quantum repeater systems for secure communications
• Rydberg atom arrays for quantum simulation
• Nanophotonic interfaces for quantum systems
• Solid-state quantum emitters

Publication analysis reveals strong focus on:

• Plant cell biology and hormone signaling (60% of recent works)
• Protein degradation mechanisms (25%)
• Quantum information systems (15%)

Major research transitions occurred around 2020 from plant molecular biology to quantum systems.

Scientific recognition includes student achievements:

• 2023: Helen Hay Whitney Fellowship (Arines)
• 2022: ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Award (Zhang)
• Multiple best talk/poster awards at MCDB Retreat

Current research projects:

• NIH R35 grant on lysosome membrane quality control
• Cystinosis Research Foundation grant for disease mechanisms
• DOE-funded quantum networking initiatives

Lab includes 2 postdocs, 6 graduate students, and 3 technicians focusing on experimental quantum systems and biological imaging.