Rui Yi

Rui Yi, PhD, is the Paul E. Steiner Research Professor of Pathology and Professor in Pathology (Experimental Pathology) and Dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Their research focuses on stem cell biology, aging, and cancer mechanisms in mammalian skin, using single-cell genomics, computational tools, and mouse models.

• Education: BS (Peking University, 1999), PhD (Duke University, 2004)

Their work explores how transcription factors, epigenetic regulators, and microRNAs govern cell fate specification and stem cell maintenance at single-cell resolution. Recent studies highlight mechanobiology in hair follicle quiescence, computational spatial analysis methods, and miRNA roles in cardiac development.

Publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches spanning stem cell biology, mechanotransduction, and genomic data analysis. Awards include NIH Pathway to Independence (2007), American Cancer Society Research Scholar (2013), and NIH NIAMS STAR Award (2017). Leadership roles include NIH Study Section (DEV2), editorial board membership, and scientific advisory roles. Research at the Laboratory of Stem Cells and Aging advances regenerative medicine and skin disease treatment.

• NIAMS STAR Award, NIH (2017)
• American Cancer Society Research Scholar (2013)
• NIH Pathway to Independence Award (2007)

Rui Yi’s team at Northwestern collaborates with institutions like Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center and Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-Based Center. Current work aims to translate molecular insights into therapies for skin aging and diseases.