Zihan (Nylah) Zhang

Hi! I’m Nylah, a first-year master’s student in Dr. Stan Kubow’s lab. My current research focuses on using a computer-controlled human simulated gut model to investigate the impact of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2NPs) on the composition and metabolism of human gut microbiota, and the potential protective role of blueberry polyphenols in mitigating any adverse effects associated with these nanoparticles. Prior to joining the lab, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Computing from Queen’s University in 2023. I am interested in how pro/prebiotics, especially bioactive components in polyphenol-rich and fermented foods, influence gut microbial communities and contribute to overall health promotion.