Interview with Prof. Anqi Qiu, OHBM fellow of 2024
Author: Simon R. Steinkamp
Editor: Kevin Sitek
In our next interview, Prof. Dr. Anqi Qiu reflects on her career and her tenure in the Organization for Human Brain Mapping.
Prof. Qiu is a professor in the Department of Health Technology and Informatics at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and a global STEM scholar. Moreover, she is an adjunct professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. Prof. Qiu received her Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and holds master's degrees in both Applied Mathematics and Statistics and Biomedical Engineering. Her previous positions include Deputy Head of Research & Enterprises in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director of the BME Innovation Center at the NUS Suzhou Research Institute, part of the National University of Singapore.
Her research in the STEM Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine focuses on uncovering the intricacies of brain development in healthy and patient populations, using complex computational analyses and combining multiple data sources.
Prof. Qiu has been committed to processing science on many fronts, for example recently becoming an editor at IEEE. But OHBM plays a special role — as Prof. Qiu tells us, she has been attending the organization’s annual meeting for many years and has been active within the organization’s council and program committees. In particular, she served as treasurer of the OHBM Council from 2020 to 2021, guiding and supporting the organization through the pandemic and moving the conference online.
We are honored that Prof. Qiu took the time to answer a few questions about her career and her experiences within OHBM.
1. What do you consider as the highlights of your career so far?
I vividly recall arriving at the National University of Singapore as an assistant professor, at a time when neuroimaging research was still in its infancy. I had the privilege of being involved in the installation of the first MRI scanner, which allowed me to pioneer neuroimaging studies in aging and dementia. In 2009, I launched a groundbreaking longitudinal brain imaging study from birth onwards, laying the foundation for neuroimaging research in Singapore and benefiting researchers both locally and globally.
2. If you could start an entirely new research program today, what direction would be the most exciting for you to explore?
We have been focusing on pediatric brain imaging to understand how brain development is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. I find it fascinating to study the brain during the first few years of life, as there are so many unknowns across multiple scales. I am eager to initiate a new research program in this area. With the extensive experience we've gained over the years and the advancements in imaging and multi-omics technologies, I am confident that we can develop a robust program to uncover the neural mechanisms of brain development and utilize this knowledge to prevent neurodevelopmental disorders.
3. What advice would you give to future scientists interested in contributing to OHBM?
I have been attending the OHBM annual meeting since my days as a graduate student, and it has provided me with invaluable knowledge beyond my own research scope. The opportunity to engage with technical researchers in imaging and analysis, psychologists, neuroscientists, and clinicians all in one meeting is incredibly beneficial. As I advanced in my career, I felt a strong desire to give back to the organization. Over the past 7 or 8 years, I have been actively involved in the OHBM program committee and council, contributing to the society's growth. I have also organized numerous workshops, symposia, and educational courses to offer young researchers valuable opportunities to learn about advanced technologies in neuroimaging, such as statistics, deep learning, pediatric imaging, and more. My advice to future scientists is to actively participate in these meetings, engage with the diverse community, and contribute to the growth and development of OHBM.
4. How has OHBM changed over your tenure?
OHBM is a dynamic and supportive organization that has evolved significantly over the years. I've witnessed the remarkable growth of the graduate and postdoctoral Special Interest Group (SIG) and the open science community, both of which have become essential components of the OHBM community. Their vibrant contributions have enriched the organization, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field.
5. What exciting things are you expecting/hoping to see in OHBM over the next few years?
I'm excited to see HBM annual meetings continue to showcase a broad spectrum of cutting-edge neuroimaging research that offers eye-opening insights to all researchers. Additionally, I look forward to increased engagement of young researchers in the organization's management, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to drive innovation and growth.
