EBM Interview: He Liu

Dr. He Liu is a clinical instructor and a scientific researcher at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada. He received his clinical and research training at Xiangya School of Medicine at Central South University in China, the University Hospital of Siena in Italy, and UBC. Dr. Liu is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the Journal of Endodontics, the official journal of the American Association of Endodontists. He also serves as an Editorial Board Member, Guest Editor, and Social Media Editor for Bioactive Materials, and is an academic editor for BioMed Central (BMC) Oral Health. Additionally, he reviews for over 30 peer-reviewed journals. His research primarily focuses on advanced dental biomaterials, innovative dental technologies, and clinical research. He has published over 80 articles in peer-reviewed journals.

Here is the interview we did with him

1. Could you briefly introduce your current research field?

My current research field centers on the design and evaluation of advanced dental biomaterials, innovative dental technologies, as well as preclinical translation and clinical research.

2. What obstacles or difficulties have you encountered in your research work? How did you overcome these difficulties?

As a researcher, one of the major obstacles we face is the challenge of translating our developed dental biomaterials and technologies into clinical applications. As a clinician, to overcome these challenges, I often adopt a reverse-engineering approach, starting from the clinical application and working backward. This method allows me to evaluate and refine our research to better align with practical clinical needs, ultimately improving the chances of successful translation to clinical practice.

3. What attracted you to join the BAM editorial Board team?

There is a Chinese idiom, "见贤思齐," which can be translated into English as "to observe the virtuous and strive to be their equal."

4. What are your expectations for the future development of Bioactive Materials and its promotion of related fields?

I look forward to seeing stories in Bioactive Materials that showcase the successful journey from basic research to clinical application in the future.

5. What is your greatest hobby outside of scientific work?

In my spare time away from research, I enjoy reading historical literature.

6. How do you balance scientific research work and personal life?

Scientific research and personal life are both integral parts of our journey. It's essential to stay clear-minded about prioritizing them at different stages of life.

7. What do you think is the most important quality for researchers?

Innovation.

8. What advice do you have for young scholars who are determined to engage in scientific research?

There is a Chinese idiom, "千里之行，始于足下," which translates to English as "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."