As Scientific Head of research lab within the Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic and Transplantation Surgery at the University of Cologne, Priv. Doz. Dr. Zhao has a strong focus on integrating precision medicine and well-being–oriented research to improve health outcomes, particularly for aging populations with cancer. As the lead of the EUniWell Onco-Aging Seed Funding project, she actively contributed to EUniWell’s mission by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, developing innovative research approaches, and translating scientific insights into education and public engagement. Her research bridges molecular oncology, aging-related cancer biology, and patient-centered interventions. She has developed large-scale liquid biopsy and biobanking platforms for biomarker discovery and therapy optimisation in gastrointestinal cancers, while also leading interdisciplinary projects on biological age–associated biomarkers, digital health solutions, and nature-based interventions to promote sustainable well-being.

She aims to bridge translational research, healthcare education, and international collaboration through a well-being perspective, with a particular focus on aging, cancer, and precision oncology. “As a EUniWell Champion, I am committed to advancing research-informed education, strengthening multidisciplinary and international collaboration, and fostering public and patient engagement in health and well-being across the Alliance.”