Zi Tao
Tübingen
Summary
Multidisciplinary R&D Scientist with a PhD in Natural Sciences (Neuroscience) and over 8 years of experience driving experimental validation and complex biological research. Proven "generalist specialist" bridging biology, hardware integration, and data analysis. Adept at translating conceptual theories into hands-on lab execution, including the rapid prototyping of novel behavioral paradigms and biosensor setups.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
PhD Researcher
University of Tübingen
Tübingen
05.2021 - 08.2026
- Led the end-to-end conceptualization and hands-on prototyping of a novel behavioral assessment paradigm, transitioning from theoretical strategy to practical lab execution.
- Integrated hardware and biological systems (two-photon microscopy, in vivo biosensors) to capture and analyze complex physiological datasets across multiple testing phases.
Research assistant
Chinese Academy of Sciences
Shanghai
07.2019 - 01.2021
- Applied rigorous experimental validation techniques (optogenetics, chemogenetics) to isolate variables, establish causality, and prove conceptual models of systemic interactions.
- Synthesized multi-modal data streams (polysomnography, photometry) to derive actionable insights into state-dependent physiological responses.
Education
Ph.D. - Neuroscience
University of Tübingen
TübingenM.S - Developmental Biology
Huazhong Agricultural University
B.S - Biological Science
Huazhong Agricultural University
Skills
- Multidisciplinary Versatility (Biology & Hardware): In vivo two-photon imaging, biosensor implantation, stereotaxic surgery, cranial window design, fiber photometry setups
- Methodological & Experimental Rigor: Experimental design, behavioral paradigm prototyping, hypothesis testing, complex data acquisition (polysomnography, EEG/EMG)
- Digital & Technical Fluency: Python, MATLAB, data-driven experimentation, algorithmic processing of high-dimensional datasets (time-series and imaging), statistical modeling
- Communication: Cross-institutional project collaboration, scientific reporting Living and working in Baden-Württemberg for five years with A1 German language proficiency alongside fluent English
Language
English
Advanced (C1)
German
Beginner (A1)
Mandarin
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Timeline
PhD Researcher
University of Tübingen
05.2021 - 08.2026
Research assistant
Chinese Academy of Sciences
07.2019 - 01.2021
M.S - Developmental Biology
Huazhong Agricultural University
B.S - Biological Science
Huazhong Agricultural University
Ph.D. - Neuroscience
University of Tübingen