Kelsey Kubelick

Kelsey Kubelick is an Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Virginia. She leads an interdisciplinary research program focused on developing advanced theranostic imaging techniques, particularly leveraging ultrasound and photoacoustic (PA) imaging. Her work integrates light, sound, nanoconstruct design, and cellular engineering to enhance therapies and diagnostics in contexts such as regenerative medicine and cancer immunotherapy.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology (2020)
• M.Eng. in Biomedical Engineering, Duke University (2014)
• B.A. Biological Sciences, University of Chicago (2012)
• Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow, Georgia Institute of Technology (2024)

Research Interests:

• Biomedical and Molecular Imaging
• Theranostics and Image-Guided Therapies
• Multi-Functional Nanoconstructs
• Cancer Immunotherapy
• Regenerative Medicine
• Medical Device Innovation for Global Health

Her lab develops imaging tools to track T cell efficacy in cancer therapies and stem cell viability in regenerative applications. Notably, she co-founded a Capstone program addressing global health disparities through sustainable medical device development.

Awards:

• UVA Emerging Leaders in Biomedical Engineering (2022)
• Rising Stars in Engineering in Health (2021)
• BME Outstanding Teaching/Mentorship award (2020)

Lab and Innovation:

Her lab’s work emphasizes theranostic platforms, combining diagnostic and therapeutic functions. Current projects include PA-guided magnetic delivery of stem cells and nanoparticle-tagged T cells for cancer immunotherapy. They also prioritize global health innovation, such as the Stool Stomper device for standardized stool sample preparation in resource-limited settings.