James Yu

Background

About James Yu

Biomedical scientist interested in biotechnology, global health, and enabling operations in low-resource settings. Currently a DARPA Fellow within the Biological Technologies Office managing and supporting a broad portfolio of high-risk, high-reward funding opportunities.I previously studied human adaptation and acclimatization to high altitude for my PhD, where I combined physiological measurements (ventilatory responses, sleep studies, cardiovascular, exercise) with biomedical techniques (multi-omics, functional genetics, cell culture) to understand how the human body adapts and responds to low oxygen. Research included fieldwork in the remote highlands of Nepal and the Andes, and leading a preliminary clinical trial in the White Mountains of California. Prior research included skin microbiome and sleep studies in Madagascar.My role as a scientist is complemented by my service in the US Army Reserves since 2016. I am currently an Innovation Officer in the Medical & Biotechnology Detachment within the 75th Innovation Command. Prior to this, I served as a MEDEVAC Pilot and Platoon Leader, overseeing MEDEVAC operations while piloting UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, including a deployment to the Middle East.