Tim (Ziyu) Wang is a senior at Deerfield Academy with interests spanning biological research, music, journalism, and community engagement. Raised in Shanghai and later moving to the United States for boarding school, he developed a cross-cultural perspective that strengthened his commitment to both the arts and scientific inquiry.
This website portfolio documents the research, performances, writing, and community projects that have shaped his interests throughout high school.
_edited.jpg)
Research
Tim's research centers on biochemistry, structural bioinformatics, and biology-oriented engineering for humanity. His work includes a first-author paper published in PLOS One on computational protein engineering and AlphaFold-based structure analysis, as well as experimental protein characterization and independent engineering research on an assistive dumbbell, Smartbell, for accessible, effective, and engaging upper-body strength training.
Through these projects, he has gained a strong interest in how combining computational models and experimental research can help researchers better understand complex, cryptic, and dynamic biological systems. Currently, he is especially fascinated with protein structure and how specific mutations affect function. He is also drawn to cases where computational predictions and experimental observations disagree, seeing them as opportunities to investigate gaps in understanding.
Tim's experience with implementing research in the real world—particularly through testing Smartbell with volunteers, collaborating with industry partners to integrate the system into existing platforms, and developing a mobile app—showed him how research can make a real impact that directly benefits others. These experiences inspire him to continue pursuing research related to biology, computation, and real-world application.
MUSIC
Tim performing on the saxophone, him with his band, CoDA, and his early years on the piano.
Music has been an integral part of Tim's life. His primary instrument is the saxophone (alto and soprano), although he began on the piano at a young age and continues to play the keyboard at school events, including occasional performances of the Deerfield Evensong for schoolwide events. He also frequently doubles on the tenor and baritone saxophones, clarinet, and flute across various ensembles
As a performer, he has explored classical, jazz, contemporary pop, musical theater, and various other genres. His mentors include Ms. Ma Jing of the Department of Orchestral Instruments at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and Mr. Bruce Krasin, Saxophone Performance Faculty at Deerfield Academy and Smith College. Over his four years at Deerfield, he has performed in 50+ concerts, productions & live sets for 15,000+ total audiences.
Tim has a keen interest in expanding music beyond performances, utilizing its accessible power to tell stories and create communities. His relationship with music includes ensemble leadership (CoDA, Deerfield's decade-old student-led pop, rock, jazz band), arranging, teaching, and three summers of music education in Zhangjiagang, China. His recent lecture-recital, Music in Many Voices, in Shanghai combined performance across diverse musical genres with discussions of music history, cultural significance, and the ability to foster community. The event successfully raised ¥ 48,399.88 for The Education Development Foundation of Shanghai Conservatory of Music (EDFSCM).
JOURNALISM
L: Past issues of The Deerfield Scroll, R: Tim with other members of The Deerfield Scroll 101st board at the annual Deerfield Academy club fair.
Tim serves as the Co-Managing Editor for the 101st board of The Deerfield Scroll, Deerfield's student newspaper. Since joining as a Staff Writer, Tim has used journalism as a way to investigate overlooked aspects of school life, explore topics relevant to the community, and share his insight via engaging and accurate stories.
Beyond writing, Tim helps guide the paper's editorial, layout, and production process, balancing rigorous journalistic standards with creativity to strengthen each monthly publication. He has also actively contributed to the redesign of the Scroll's previously neglected website, helping establish a more accessible digital alternative.
His interest in investigative writing extends beyond Deerfield. Through the Harvard International Review Academic Writing Contest, he explored U.S.-China competition over subsea cables and digital sovereignty in the Pacific Islands, earning a Gold Medal (Top 3% globally) for his essay.