Recently, Professor Zhang Tianqi from the School of Horticulture of Nanjing Agricultural University was invited to give a keynote academic presentation on "Single-cell Sequencing Analysis of Plant Cell Heterogeneity and Exploration of Gene Resources".

Professor Zhang Tianqi explained the work related to the sequencing and analysis of shoot tip single cells in a simple way, and systematically introduced the relevant research and achievements of his research group on the analysis of plant cell heterogeneity, cell type and marker gene identification, and cell differentiation trajectory reconstruction. He shared valuable insights and experiences with attending teachers and students through in-depth exchanges and discussions.

This academic report has facilitated mutual understanding among young researchers in different fields within and outside the institute, creating a conducive academic atmosphere for scientific research and innovation among young employees. It has also promoted internal and external cooperation and communication.

Professor Zhang Tianqi's research group focuses mainly on tomato, potato, Arabidopsis, and bryophyllum, with a long-standing interest in the mechanisms of plant cell totipotency and asexual reproduction. The laboratory has established a comprehensive research system that integrates big data-driven reverse genetics, single-cell biology, molecular biology, cell biology, and bioinformatics. Their research aims to analyze the mechanisms underlying plant asexual reproduction, gene regulatory networks in diverse plant meristems, quality trait regulation of Solanaceae crops, as well as molecular breeding and the development and application of biological technology.