Professor Qi Jieyu from the Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) has been making significant strides in her research of hereditary deafness, focusing on the pathogenic mechanisms and gene therapy for inner ear disorders. Qi's dedication to her field is a testament to the perseverance and responsibility of young researchers at BIT, as she strives to bring sound to those born without it.

Qi's journey into biology began with a genuine passion during her high school years, where biology was her favorite subject. Her teacher's engaging explanations opened the door to the fascinating world of life sciences, sparking her interest in the intricate workings of genes and cells. When it came time to choose her college major, she unhesitatingly opted for biology, setting her on a path intertwined with life sciences. During her graduate studies, she began her research into deafness, a focus she has maintained for over a decade, turning her passion into a lifelong career.

A pivotal moment for Qi was the time when she transitioned from laboratory research to clinical practice. In the operating room, she encountered a two-year-old child with congenital deafness who left a lasting impression on her. The child's silent demeanor due to congenital deafness and the subsequent gratitude of the family after a successful surgery highlighted the profound impact of her research. This experience underscored the importance of her work, not just as a scientific achievement, but as a beacon of hope capable of changing lives. The emotional connection with patients and their families became a powerful motivator for her continued dedication to deafness research.

Qi chose BIT not only for its vibrant city atmosphere but also for the opportunity to conduct research that addresses national priorities. "The academic freedom, comprehensive support system, and strategic guidance provided by the university have allowed me to integrate my research with national needs effectively," Qi remarked.

Balancing her roles as a teacher, researcher, and department head, Qi approaches each with full dedication. Her research informs her teaching and management, while her administrative role supports her scientific endeavors. This synergy enhances her ability to contribute significantly in each area.

Congenital deafness, a highly heterogeneous genetic disorder, involves over 200 pathogenic genes, with mechanisms understood for only a few. Qi's ultimate goal is to achieve a genetic cure, allowing deaf children to hear naturally without devices. Her research, published in leading journals such as Lancet, Nature Medicine, Science Advances, and Nature Communications has gained significant recognition. She has led and participated in numerous national and provincial research projects, earning prestigious awards for her contributions to the field.

As an educator, Qi is committed to nurturing her students' innovative thinking, independent problem-solving, and dedication. She tailors her teaching to students' backgrounds, encouraging them to integrate their expertise with deafness research. Qi has formed interdisciplinary teams, bringing together students from biology, computer science, and bioengineering to foster collaborative learning and growth.

In her courses, such as Introduction to Life Sciences and Frontier Advances, Qi incorporates cutting-edge research and clinical cases to ignite students' interest in research. Many undergraduates have joined her lab, engaging in advanced studies on model building and gene editing.

"Hearing now, Hearing forever," is what Qi always writes on the lecture slides, reflecting her research vision and aspirations for her students.