Yifan Cheng

Yifan Cheng, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), School of Medicine. His research is centered on the structural and functional analysis of macromolecular complexes using cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) techniques.

• Position: Associate Professor
• Institution: University of California, San Francisco
• School: School of Medicine
• Department: Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
• Email: yifan.cheng@ucsf.edu

Dr. Cheng’s research focuses on high-resolution structural biology, particularly the 3D architecture and dynamic behavior of macromolecular assemblies such as ion channels, viral proteins, and proteasomes. His lab employs single-particle cryoEM, electron tomography, and integrative structural methods to understand molecular mechanisms at near-atomic resolution.

The trends in his recent publications indicate a strong emphasis on advancing cryoEM methodologies—including motion correction, CTF estimation, and sample preparation—while applying these techniques to biologically significant targets like HIV proteins, TRPV1 channels, and ABC exporters. His work bridges structural insights with functional implications in virology, neurobiology, and cellular regulation.

Although no formal scientific awards are listed in the provided text, his publications in premier journals such as Nature, Cell, and PNAS reflect significant scholarly impact.

Dr. Cheng leads an active research laboratory (Cheng Lab) at UCSF, where he mentors researchers and develops innovative approaches in cryoEM. While specific details about grants or students are not mentioned, his extensive publication record suggests ongoing funded research and collaborative projects.