Jessica M. Larsen

Jessica M. Larsen, Ph.D., is the Carol and John Cromer ’63 Family Endowed Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Clemson University. Her research focuses on drug delivery, biomaterials, and nanotechnology, particularly at the interface of materials science and neural biology to address central nervous system diseases. She leads the Larsen Lab, which develops innovative therapeutic strategies using polymersomes and nanotechnology.

Education:

• Ph.D., Auburn University
• B.S., University of Virginia

Research Interests: Dr. Larsen’s work emphasizes the design and application of biodegradable polymers and nanostructures for targeted drug delivery. She investigates how materials interact with biological systems, such as blood components and neural tissues, to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Her lab explores polymersome technology for co-delivering hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, as well as self-assembling nanostructures for diagnostics and treatment.

Publications: Her recent work includes studies on nanoparticle shape modulation, biodegradable block co-polymers, and enzyme replacement therapy using polymersomes. These publications highlight advancements in nanomedicine and biomaterials for addressing neurological disorders.

Labs/Teams: The Larsen Lab is part of the Center for Nanotherapeutic Strategies in the Central Nervous System, focusing on translating nanotechnology into clinical solutions for CNS diseases.