I'm a quiet and simple guy (on the outside). I grew up in the South, was educated on the east coast, and moved here to SoCal for work. I don't have a twang, but can produce one on demand. Growing up as an Asian-American in the South certainly shaped my character....

I work too much, but love my work, which is 90% research towards a vaccine for HIV, 10% playing doctor at a university hospital as an infectious diseases specialist.

Food and cooking are a major hobby; I enjoy ethnic dining and hole-in-the-wall restaurants. When I have time on weekends, I like to try new recipes; I tend to be somewhat a home-body, but am trying to expand my horizons a bit.

Humor is very important to me; I find it the best approach to dealing with difficulties in life. I have a somewhat understated but very sarcastic sense of humor.

Earlier in life I was seriously into music (piano), but that took a back seat to school and career. My dream (when I wind down my career) is to have a Bosendorfer grand piano, or perhaps a vintage Steinway grand (from the 1920s-30s) and pick up music again. In the meantime, I still really enjoy classical music, particularly piano music from the romantic era, especially piano concerti. On the other hand, I enjoy 80s pop.

I am quirky, and collect antique fountain pens, antique phonographs (which I like to repair). I prefer museums to hiking (although I can be forced to enjoy nature occasionally!). I do enjoy walking my dog, playing racquetball, and scuba diving when I have time.

I find sincerity, intelligence, humor, honesty, and maturity to be the most important qualities in my friends.

P.S. An explanation about my "separated" status: I have lived alone almost 3 years, and am going through an amicable divorce. Nothing messy or ugly; the other person just felt I am too dedicated to work. I am very independent and have no problem with being alone. Maybe that is good, maybe that is bad.....

I enjoy low key dining. Favorites include sushi, Korean BBQ, Thai, Chinese, Italian, French, Vietnamese, ...... basically, any food! I don't like "scenes" and valet parking; in fact I am morally opposed to the latter. So, I guess the ideal would be some place where you get only one fork or a pair of chopsticks, and it is acceptable to use your fingers and make lots of noise while you eat.