Thursday Talks: Yaping Yuan

Our next staff spotlight is on Yaping Yuan, who has been with Rutgers School of Dental Medicine (RSDM) for over two decades.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do at RSDM.

I am a senior technologist in application services at RSDM, where I work in the Office of Information Technology. My job involves supporting technology-based operational functions and dental applications. I have a background in both computer science as well as molecular and cell biology, having completed master's degrees in both fields.

How long have you been here, and why did you decide to come to RSDM?

I have been at RSDM for 25 years! Before joining RSDM, I attended graduate school, where I conducted research in biology for many years before discovering a passion for computer science. My background in both scientific research and computer science taught me that I really enjoy solving problems analytically. I love the college environment. I joined RSDM as a programmer analyst and thought working in IT in dental school was a good fit for me.

What do you like the most about RSDM?

I would definitely say the people. Over the past 25 years, I have had the incredible opportunity to meet and learn from so many wonderful people, some of whom have become close friends. I am very grateful to be part of the RSDM team.

What do you enjoy doing outside the school?

I am the mom of two wonderful kids; I love spending time with my family. I also enjoy playing pickleball, and I started to learn gardening. Finally, I like traveling, both for fun as well as to learn more about different cultures.