From Hesitation to Hope: Meet Dongjun Shin, PhD Student at the FOXG1 Research Center

Dongjun with his wife and son ringing in 2025 on New Year’s Eve!

When Dongjun Shin first stepped into the FOXG1 Research Center, he wasn’t sure if a PhD was the right path for him. Now, he’s deep into a thesis that could help transform how we understand and treat FOXG1 syndrome — and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

A Journey That Started with Curiosity

Originally from South Korea, Dongjun earned his BS in Biology at James Madison University, followed by an MS in Neuroscience at the University at Buffalo (UB). It was during his Master’s program — right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic — that he connected with postdocs in the FOXG1 Research Center (then known as the Lee Lab). That connection led to an opportunity to join the lab as a technician.

“I wasn’t sure I wanted to pursue a PhD at first,” Dongjun admits. “It felt like a huge commitment. But working alongside postdocs and PhD students here gave me the confidence to go for it — and I’m so glad I did.”

Now in his second year of UB’s PhD program, Dongjun is focused on behavioral characteristic analysis in mouse models carrying FOXG1 mutations. He anticipates completing his PhD within the next couple of years.

Finding Purpose in the Unknown

Dongjun has always been drawn to science, but it was a neuroscience class during his junior year of undergrad that solidified his path.

“I loved that neuroscience seemed to have more unknowns than answers. The idea of discovering how specific neurons function — that really excited me.”

That passion grew into purpose at the FOXG1 Research Center, where the team doesn’t just study generic models — they work with patient-specific mutations. “It’s one of the most fascinating parts of the research here,” Dongjun says. “We’re not just looking at knock-out models — we’re studying variants that real patients carry as well.”

Life in the Lab: A Typical Day

Dongjun’s daily work focuses on behavioral analysis — observing how FOXG1 mutations affect motor function, social behavior, and intellectual ability in mice. His goal is to identify phenotypical characteristics and measure the rescue effects of experimental treatments.

But Dongjun’s favorite part of lab life? The teamwork.

“We have regular meetings to share ideas and give each other feedback. It’s collaborative and supportive. I’ve learned so much from seeing projects through different perspectives.”

Motivated by Impact

When asked what keeps him going, Dongjun points to the sense of purpose that comes with FOXG1 research — and the people behind the data.

“It helps me stay motivated and responsible, knowing our work could change lives. I feel proud that our research helps families facing FOXG1.”

He vividly remembers the first publication he was involved in, where they tested an AAV9 gene therapy on FOXG1-deficient mice. “Seeing that treatment could rescue symptoms even after birth — that was a huge moment.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of FOXG1 Research

Dongjun is especially hopeful about the lab’s ongoing work with AAV gene therapy and the potential for preclinical and clinical trials.

“I hope meetings with the FDA go smoothly so we can move this research into the next phase. But I also hope we keep exploring other therapeutic options. Science keeps evolving — and we need to evolve with it.”

A Message to FOXG1 Families

If Dongjun could say one thing to FOXG1 families, it would be this:

“Please don’t lose hope. Some doctors may tell you there’s nothing to be done because it’s a genetic mutation — but that’s not true. Maybe we can’t cure it yet, but science will keep moving forward.”

Beyond the Lab

Outside the lab, Dongjun enjoys spending time with his wife and young son — especially quiet family moments at the park or local museums. “Sometimes just staying in and cuddling recharges me,” he says. “I also find peace in prayer and alone time.”

Though he came from a bustling city in South Korea, Dongjun enjoys Buffalo’s quieter pace. “It has everything I need — without all the crowds and traffic.”

Final Thoughts

Dongjun Shin’s journey is one of quiet persistence, curiosity, and heart. His work — and the work of his colleagues at the FOXG1 Research Center — continues to bring hope to families, one discovery at a time.

Dongjun and his son enjoying a family meal.