Since Li joined HSPH in 1997, Li has not only proven herself to be knowledgeable, hardworking and highly skilled as a researcher but has done so well that she is now the Lab Director for David Christiani’s labs! Over the past 15 years, it is clear that Li has worked her way up the career ladder having held titles such as Research Assistant I, Research Assistant II, Research Specialist to the title she holds today as Lab Director/Researcher . David contributes much of the success of his research and outcomes from Li’s strong work ethic, attention to detail and ability to get along with all individuals in his research team.

As a Lab Director, Li Su is responsible for overseeing the day to day operations of the lab, implementing laboratory safety procedures, maintaining service contracts on equipment and making sure the laboratory has the equipment necessary to function effectively. She is also responsible for the management and training of the lab staff that can range from 10-15 individuals at a given time. As a manager, Li also serves as a mentor and friend to her staff and makes herself available to everyone when needed for either education, guidance, and/or coaching. As the Lab Director, one of her many critical tasks is to set up new research labs as new funding and research priorities come down the pipeline. This requires the ability to negotiate with vendors, work with operations/facilities and partner with faculty to discuss needs.

As a fellow researcher in the labs, Li has autonomy to conduct independent scientific research that has a focus on molecular epidemiology of chronic environmental diseases. She is responsible for the analysis of all samples that come into the lab for DNA, RNA, genotyping and/or proteomics analysis.