Toxicology alumna Ziting's research investigates the effects of nanomaterials on barrier organs such as the lungs and skin

What did you study as an undergraduate (bachelor)?

I earned a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, majoring in Traditional Chinese Medicine with a minor in Acupuncture and Moxibustion. My grandfather is a surgeon, and I believe that treating diseases and curing patients is one of the greatest things I can do because of him. His influence and the respect he commands have always inspired my strong interest in clinical medicine.

Why did you choose the Master programme in Toxicology?

While studying clinical medicine, I realized that efficacy and toxicity are two sides of the same drug. To optimize treatment effectiveness and minimize side effects, I need to learn more about medication toxicity and toxicology.

Where did you conduct your MSc thesis and what was it about?

I conducted my MSc thesis in Respiratory & Immunology, Neuroscience, and Vaccines & Immune Therapies at AstraZeneca R&D in Gothenburg, Sweden. The title of my MSc thesis is "Development of Flow Cytometry-based Assay/s to Monitor Cell Type-Specific Treatment Responses in a Co-culture Model". In this project, we optimized an antibody panel for high-throughput flow cytometry to monitor various cell types in a co-culture model.

Looking back on your time at KI and the Master programme in Toxicology, what is the most valuable thing that you learned?

The most valuable aspect of my MSc in Toxicology at KI was the comprehensive foundation it provided in both basic and advanced toxicology. As someone who was completely new to the field, the well-structured courses at KI quickly immersed me in toxicology, making all key concepts clear and accessible. The program not only equipped me with essential knowledge but also built a strong framework for critical thinking and application in real-world settings. Additionally, studying at KI introduced me to a global network of researchers and professionals, and fostering connections that continue to benefit my career today.

Where are you and what are you doing now?

I am currently a second-year PhD student at ETH Zürich and the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) in Switzerland. My research focuses on nanotoxicology, specifically investigating the effects of nanomaterials on barrier organs such as the lungs and skin.

What made you decide on this career?

I believe that a PhD is about more than just research. Soft skills like stress management, time management, scientific communication, and writing are just as important—if not more. Developing these skills isn’t just useful for the PhD itself; it's a lifelong asset for personal and professional growth. On the academic side, I want to deepen my knowledge and gain a more detailed understanding of my field. From a practical perspective, most of the career paths I aspire to require a PhD, making this journey an essential step toward my goals.