Yanfei Zhang obtained her MSc in plant pathology from Northwest A&F University. Her research focuses on plant–pathogen interactions, with a particular interest in the molecular mechanisms by which fungal effectors modulate host immunity. During her master’s studies, she worked on the functional characterisation of a Puccinia striiformis effector and its interaction with host mitochondrial proteins such as VDAC. Yanfei has experience in molecular biology and protein interaction assays, and is also interested in cell biology. She is particularly interested in plant autophagy, including selective autophagy in stress responses and mitochondrial dynamics. She looks forward to further exploring these topics through the programme, exchanging ideas with peers, and preparing for PhD studies focused on these mechanisms.