Yichen Li has always been driven to understand the world around her. Growing up in an Eastern province in China, Li’s inquisitive nature steered her toward science.

“When I was a girl, I wouldn’t stop asking my dad questions, such as what is light, electricity or heat,” she said.

Li’s father shared the same delight in learning about the sciences. He always had an answer for her, until her questions became too advanced. He then bought her books that laid the foundation for her love of the sciences.

To read more, visit https://stemcell.keck.usc.edu/curiosity-commitment-and-compassion-drive-yichen-lis-research-in-neurodegenerative-diseases.