Haoyang Ma

Where did you complete your undergraduate degree?
Fudan University

Please provide your lab and description of research.
I work in Professor Mark Anastasio's lab on virtual staining. My research focuses on using computational imaging and deep learning to generate histology-like stained images from label-free imaging data, with the goal of improving biomedical image analysis and enabling faster, less invasive workflows.

What played into your decision to get a graduate engineering degree?
During my undergraduate studies in physics, I became increasingly interested in imaging science and computational methods. My mom is a radiologist, I was also inspired by her. I want to use what I learn to help more people. I realized that a graduate engineering degree would give me the opportunity to combine physics, optics and machine learning to solve real problems in biomedical imaging. The combination of fundamental science and practical impact was a major reason I chose this path.

Why did you pick WashU?
The best ranked school of USA that let me in.

What is your favorite thing about St. Louis?
I really like St. Louis because it has a slower pace of life than a huge city, while still having all the essential conveniences, so it does not feel like a place in the middle of nowhere. The academic environment here is also excellent, and both the faculty and students are very strong academically. The food is great, and there is also beautiful natural scenery nearby, especially Forest Park, which is really beautiful.

What advice would you give to a new student?
Don't be afraid to try new things or ask for help.

What campus activities or groups would you recommend to a new student?
ESE master advisory board

What are your plans for the future?
I would like to continue pursuing a PhD in Imaging Science at our school.