Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 9/1/2026 12:00:00 AM
Xuanzhen Yuan, MS, Graduate Research Assistant, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
What does being a 2026 Presidential Trainee mean to you?
Being selected as a 2026 Presidential Trainee Award Recipient is a very special honor to me, especially during the final year of my PhD. It feels like meaningful recognition of the many years of work, growth, and persistence behind this journey, as well as the support and mentorship that helped shape it. It also gives me confidence as I prepare for the next step in my career.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy spending quiet time with my family and friends, trying new recipes, working out, and getting outdoors for a hike when I can. These moments help me recharge and bring balance to my day. I especially value working out regularly because it reminds me that growth often comes little by little through consistency.
How do you keep focused and motivated?
To stay focused, I like to make a long-term plan and set goals that I can work toward step by step. To stay motivated, I find a lot of inspiration in attending annual conferences, talking with others in the field, and getting feedback on my work. The chance to see how others are approaching important clinical questions motivates me to keep growing and improving in my own research.
What was your childhood dream job?
My childhood dream job was to become a clinical laboratory scientist, the same work my mom did. She sometimes worked night shifts in a hospital laboratory, and I grew up with a close view of how sample collection and laboratory analysis support patient care. Seeing the dedication her work required, especially during long overnight shifts, gave me an early appreciation for clinically connected science. That perspective continues to shape the work I do today.
Xuanzhen has been a member of ASCPT since 2025.
