Ian White

Ian White is an Associate Professor in the Fischell Department of Bioengineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. He leads the Amplified Molecular Sensors Lab, focused on developing next-generation biosensing systems. His research emphasizes novel amplification strategies and assay automation to improve diagnostic simplicity and sensitivity. Key projects include thermally responsive alkane partitions (TRAPs) for sample-to-answer tests and phenotypically amplified β-lactamase (PhABL) assays for detecting multidrug-resistant pathogens.

• Joined University of Maryland in 2008
• Postdoctoral training at the University of Missouri (2005–2008)
• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University (2002)

Research interests span biosensing technologies, molecular diagnostics, and nanotechnology applications in healthcare. His lab has pioneered innovations in paper-based SERS sensors and disposable diagnostic systems funded by NIAID, NHLBI, and NSF grants. Current projects include detecting viruses in wastewater, trauma-induced organ failure biomarkers, and antimicrobial resistance screening.

Lab members have developed commercialized technologies via spin-off companies like Diagnostic anSERS. Awards include NIAID R01 grants and Maryland Industrial Partnerships funding. Over 40 peer-reviewed publications and numerous patents highlight his contributions to analytical chemistry and biomedical engineering.