Yuelin Zhang

Yuelin Zhang is a Full Professor in the Department of Botany at the University of British Columbia (UBC), affiliated with the Faculty of Science. She holds a B.Sc. in Genetics from Fudan University (1989), a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Oklahoma State University (1995), and completed postdoctoral training at the University of North Carolina and Duke University (1995-1999). Prior to UBC, she was an Assistant/Associate Investigator at the National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS) in Beijing (2005-2011).

Research Focus

Dr. Zhang's research centers on plant immune mechanisms, with dual emphasis on: (1) Signal Transduction downstream of immune receptors (NB-LRR, RLK, RLP), using suppressor screens to map defense networks; and (2) Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR), where she developed high-throughput assays to identify genetic regulators of long-range immunity against pathogens like Pseudomonas syringae and Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis.

Her lab investigates molecular components including MAP kinase cascades, salicylic acid/N-hydroxy pipecolic acid biosynthesis, and transcription factors (e.g., SARD1, CBP60g). Research bridges fundamental Arabidopsis studies with applications in crop disease resistance.

Publication Trends

Recent work (2020-2025) reveals deepening expertise in salicylic acid signaling, MAP kinase regulation in immunity, and epigenetic control of defense metabolites. Studies increasingly target fungal pathogens (e.g., Sclerotinia, Botrytis) using host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) strategies, extending findings to crops like maize.

Laboratory & Contact

Dr. Zhang directs a research lab in the Biological Sciences Building at UBC, investigating plant-pathogen interactions through genetic, biochemical, and molecular approaches. Contact: yuelin.zhang@ubc.ca.