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PhD Computational Biologist |10 years Tutoring Exp
Hongru Y.

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Hourly Rate: $75
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About Hongru

Bio

I am a Ph.D. candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, with rigorous training in biology, mathematics, statistics, and programming. I tutor biology across levels—from foundational topics like cells, genetics, evolution, and physiology to AP Biology and introductory college biology—by building strong intuition first and then reinforcing it with practice questions. I also tutor math from middle school through early college, including pre-algebra, algebra, geometry,...

I am a Ph.D. candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, with rigorous training in biology, mathematics, statistics, and programming. I tutor biology across levels—from foundational topics like cells, genetics, evolution, and physiology to AP Biology and introductory college biology—by building strong intuition first and then reinforcing it with practice questions. I also tutor math from middle school through early college, including pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus, with support for test prep and course exams when needed.

My teaching experience includes one-on-one and small-group support with students ranging from middle school to college. I work comfortably with learners of all skill levels, including students who feel behind or anxious about STEM. I start by identifying exactly where confusion begins, then break concepts into simple steps and use plenty of guided practice to turn “I get it” into “I can do it.” I’m patient with questions, and I adjust pace and explanations until the student feels confident.

My approach is structured and encouraging: short explanations, worked examples, and intentional practice with immediate feedback. For math, I focus on problem-solving habits, showing multiple methods when helpful and teaching students how to check their work. For biology, I connect ideas to real-life examples and visuals so the material sticks, then use active recall and spaced review to improve retention. My goal is to help each student build a reliable learning process, stronger grades, and genuine confidence over time.

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Education

UCSD
Bioengineering
UCSD
PhD

Additional Languages

Wu Chinese

Policies

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Approved Subjects

Biostatistics

Biostatistics

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, where I apply biostatistics daily to analyze large-scale biological and clinical-style datasets. I tutor core topics such as probability, distributions, hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, regression, ANOVA basics, multiple testing/FDR, and experimental design, with an emphasis on interpreting results correctly. I can also support practical analysis skills in R or Python (data cleaning, visualization, and running common statistical tests) for homework, labs, and research projects. My teaching style is structured and intuitive: I focus on the “why,” common pitfalls, and how to choose the right test for a given question.
C#

C#

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, and I use computer science daily to build reproducible data pipelines and analyze large datasets in Python. I tutor CS fundamentals such as problem-solving, control flow, functions, recursion basics, data structures (lists, dictionaries, sets), and algorithmic thinking, as well as practical skills like debugging and writing clean, readable code. I also help students apply these skills to real assignments and projects—breaking down requirements, designing solutions, and improving code step-by-step. My approach is hands-on and supportive for all levels, from first-time coders to students preparing for more advanced coursework.
C++

C++

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, and I use computer science daily to build reproducible data pipelines and analyze large datasets in Python. I tutor CS fundamentals such as problem-solving, control flow, functions, recursion basics, data structures (lists, dictionaries, sets), and algorithmic thinking, as well as practical skills like debugging and writing clean, readable code. I also help students apply these skills to real assignments and projects—breaking down requirements, designing solutions, and improving code step-by-step. My approach is hands-on and supportive for all levels, from first-time coders to students preparing for more advanced coursework.
College Counseling

College Counseling

I founded the UCSD Chinese Engineering Society to help students navigate college academics, research opportunities, and career planning. Through this work, I’ve mentored many students on building strong applications for college and graduate programs, including school selection, positioning their strengths, and planning activities that support their goals. I also coach students on essays and personal statements to make their stories clear, authentic, and compelling. My approach is structured and supportive, with actionable milestones from early planning through final submission.
Computer Science

Computer Science

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, where I use Python and data-driven methods daily to analyze large biological datasets and build reproducible computational workflows. I tutor computer science fundamentals (problem-solving, algorithms, data structures basics, debugging) and practical programming skills in Python, with support for projects, homework, and exam preparation. My teaching style is hands-on: we work through real problems together, write and debug code live, and I teach patterns students can reuse independently. I’ve mentored students at different skill levels, from first-time coders to those preparing for more advanced coursework or research computing.
Data Analysis

Data Analysis

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, and I use computer science daily to build reproducible data pipelines and analyze large datasets in Python. I tutor CS fundamentals such as problem-solving, control flow, functions, recursion basics, data structures (lists, dictionaries, sets), and algorithmic thinking, as well as practical skills like debugging and writing clean, readable code. I also help students apply these skills to real assignments and projects—breaking down requirements, designing solutions, and improving code step-by-step. My approach is hands-on and supportive for all levels, from first-time coders to students preparing for more advanced coursework.
Data Science

Data Science

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, and I use computer science daily to build reproducible data pipelines and analyze large datasets in Python. I tutor CS fundamentals such as problem-solving, control flow, functions, recursion basics, data structures (lists, dictionaries, sets), and algorithmic thinking, as well as practical skills like debugging and writing clean, readable code. I also help students apply these skills to real assignments and projects—breaking down requirements, designing solutions, and improving code step-by-step. My approach is hands-on and supportive for all levels, from first-time coders to students preparing for more advanced coursework.
Data Structures

Data Structures

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, and I use computer science daily to build reproducible data pipelines and analyze large datasets in Python. I tutor CS fundamentals such as problem-solving, control flow, functions, recursion basics, data structures (lists, dictionaries, sets), and algorithmic thinking, as well as practical skills like debugging and writing clean, readable code. I also help students apply these skills to real assignments and projects—breaking down requirements, designing solutions, and improving code step-by-step. My approach is hands-on and supportive for all levels, from first-time coders to students preparing for more advanced coursework.
Genetics

Genetics

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, with a strong foundation in genetics, molecular biology, and genomics. I tutor genetics topics such as DNA structure and replication, gene expression and regulation, Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance, population genetics, and modern techniques like PCR, sequencing, and CRISPR. My approach emphasizes conceptual understanding first—using clear diagrams, analogies, and step-by-step reasoning—then targeted practice on problems and exam-style questions. I work with high school (including AP Biology) and college students, helping them move from memorizing terms to confidently explaining mechanisms and solving genetics problems.
High School Placement Test

High School Placement Test

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, and I specialize in helping students prepare for high school placement and entrance exams. I focus on the core skills these tests measure: arithmetic and pre-algebra, early algebra and word problems, reading comprehension, grammar, and writing. My approach is structured and strategy-based: we review key content, build step-by-step methods for each question type, and practice pacing so students perform confidently under timed conditions. I also create targeted practice based on your child’s diagnostic results, turning weak areas into reliable strengths before test day.
Interview Prep

Interview Prep

I have firsthand experience interviewing with large corporations, so I understand how recruiters and hiring managers think and what they look for in strong candidates. I help students prepare for behavioral and situational questions using clear frameworks like STAR, and we practice turning their experiences into concise, compelling stories. I also work on communication skills—body language, tone, and confidence—as well as common “fit” and motivation questions. For more technical or industry-specific interviews, I help students structure their preparation plan, refine how they explain projects, and handle follow-up questions under pressure.
Linux

Linux

I use Linux daily in my PhD bioinformatics research, working on remote servers and clusters to manage data, run pipelines, and troubleshoot real-world issues. I tutor core Linux skills including navigating the file system, managing files and permissions, using the shell effectively (bash), and working with common tools like grep, awk, sed, and tmux. I also help students learn basic shell scripting, environment management (conda, modules), and remote work with SSH for coursework, research, or early career roles. My approach is hands-on and project-based: we practice real commands, walk through common workflows, and build confidence using the terminal instead of fearing it.
Machine Learning/ AI

Machine Learning/ AI

I’m a PhD candidate in Bioengineering (Bioinformatics track) at UC San Diego, where I use machine learning and AI methods to analyze large biological datasets in Python. I tutor core ML concepts such as regression and classification, model evaluation (train/validation/test splits, cross-validation, metrics), regularization, and basic unsupervised learning (clustering, dimensionality reduction). On the practical side, I help students implement models with libraries like scikit-learn, work through homework and projects, and understand how to interpret model outputs responsibly. My approach balances intuition and code: we start with clear conceptual explanations, then build and debug real models step-by-step so students can apply these tools independently.
Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365

I use Microsoft 365 tools daily for academic and research work, including writing professional documents in Word, building data tables and basic analyses in Excel, and creating clear, polished presentations in PowerPoint. I tutor students and professionals on how to use these tools efficiently—formatting, styles, templates, charts, and collaboration features like comments and track changes. I also help learners get comfortable with OneDrive and Teams for file organization, sharing, and online meetings. My approach is hands-on and task-based: we work through real examples (homework, reports, slides) so students build skills they can immediately apply.
Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows

I use Microsoft Windows daily for academic, research, and productivity work, and I help students become confident with the operating system rather than frustrated by it. I tutor core skills such as organizing files and folders, customizing settings, managing apps and updates, and using built-in tools like Task Manager, File Explorer, and basic security features. I also help with practical troubleshooting—slow computers, startup programs, simple connectivity issues, and permissions—explaining not just what to click, but why. My approach is patient and hands-on, guiding learners step-by-step so they can handle common Windows tasks and problems on their own.
Personal Statements

Personal Statements

I specialize in coaching personal statements for high school, college, graduate programs, and jobs, drawing on my experience founding the UCSD Chinese Engineering Society and mentoring countless students through successful applications. I help students clarify their story, identify their genuine strengths, and align those with what schools or employers are actually looking for. My process is structured and collaborative: we move from brainstorming and outlining to focused drafting and deep revision, tightening narrative, impact, and clarity at each step. I aim for statements that sound like the student at their best—authentic, specific, and memorable, not generic or over-polished.
SAS

SAS

I have experience using SAS for data management and statistical analysis, including importing/cleaning datasets, working with DATA steps, and using common PROCs (such as PROC MEANS, PROC FREQ, PROC REG, and PROC GLM). I tutor students on both the programming side (writing and understanding SAS code) and the statistics side (choosing appropriate procedures and interpreting output correctly). I can support coursework, labs, and applied projects, helping students move from point-and-click or template use to actually understanding what their code and models are doing. My approach is hands-on and example-driven, with clear explanations followed by guided practice on real or class-related datasets.
Table Tennis

Table Tennis

I was professionally trained in China and have been ranked in Shanghai, giving me a strong foundation in high-level table tennis technique, footwork, and match strategy. I coach players on core skills such as grip, stance, serves, receive, spin control, and consistent looping, as well as movement patterns and point construction. My lessons combine structured drills with situation-based practice so students can transfer skills into real matches. I work well with all levels—from beginners building fundamentals to competitive players looking to sharpen tactics and consistency.
Thesis Writing

Thesis Writing

I am a PhD candidate actively writing my dissertation and publishing research, so I understand the full thesis process—from proposal and literature review to methods, results, and final polishing. I help students clarify their research questions, structure chapters logically, and turn complex ideas into clear, precise academic writing. My coaching focuses on building a strong argument, integrating sources correctly, and maintaining consistency in style, figures, and citations. I also support planning and time management, breaking large writing tasks into manageable milestones so students can make steady progress without burning out.
ACT Science
Algebra 1
Algebra 2
Biology
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Contact Hongru
Response time: 8 hours
Hourly Rate: $75
Response time: 8 hours
Contact Hongru