Researcher

R. (Ruizhi) Deng, PhD

Post-doc

Department
Clinical Genetics
Focus area
Computational biology, Bioinformatics, Artificial Intelligence, Genetics, Brain disorder, Non-coding genome

Contact

About R. (Ruizhi) Deng, PhD

Introduction

My research focuses on deciphering hidden genetic causes of genetic disorders by large-scale computational analysis. I have developed various tools and data resource to push the boundaries of the underestimated non-coding variants in the clinical genetics. My long-term goal is to develop advanced computational applications that enhance clinical diagnosis and facilitate the translation of research findings into real-world medical practice.

Field(s) of expertise

Expertise in bioinformatics and AI-driven approaches to improve genetic diagnostics for genetic disorders.

Education and career

Ph.D. in Bioinformatics & Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Netherlands

M.Sc. in Bioinformatics, Northwest A&F University, China

B.Sc. in Veterinary medicine, Northwest A&F University, China

Publications

Selected publications in 5 years:

1. BRAIN-MAGNET: a functional genomics atlas aids interpretation of noncoding variants. R. Deng et al Cell 2026 189 1-20

2. AMFR dysfunction causes autosomal recessive spastic paraplegia in human that is amenable to statin treatment in a preclinical model. R. Deng et al Acta Neuropathologica 2023 146(2):353-368

3. Comprehensive multi-omics integration identifies differentially active enhancers during human brain development with clinical relevance. S. Yousefi, R. Deng et al Genome Medicine 2021 13(1):162

4. Case report: two new cases of chromosome 12q14 deletions and review of the literature. R. Deng et al Frontiers in Genetics 2021 1:12:716874

The full list of publications in PubMed

Teaching activities

Supervision of students

Other positions

Visiting postdoctoral researcher, Kundaje lab of Stanford University, 1/12/2025-31/11/2027

Scholarships, grants, and awards

1. Rubicon NWO (highly competitive and prestigious international mobility grant for early-career researchers in the Netherlands to gain postdoctoral experience abroad, success rate ~13%, 2025)
2. Sophia Research foundation (co-applicant, 2023).
3. Spastic Paraplegia Foundation (co-applicant, 2022).
4. Best Abstract Prize (The European Society of Human Genetics conference, 2022)