Cristina Zavaleta

Dr. Cristina Zavaleta is the WiSE Gabilan Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Southern California. She leads the Molecular Imaging and Nano Diagnostics (MIND) Lab, developing nano-based molecular imaging strategies to improve cancer detection, surgical precision, and personalized medicine. Her work focuses on integrating Raman, fluorescence, and photoacoustic imaging with tumor-targeting nanoparticles. She actively serves on USC's Racial Parity Committee to address diversity in biomedical engineering.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Radiological Sciences/Medical Physics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (2006)
• B.S. in Nuclear Medicine, University of Incarnate Word (2001)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Stanford University (2006–2012)

Her research bridges chemistry, engineering, and biology to create clinically translatable diagnostic tools. Key projects include: multiplexed Raman proteomic imaging (26-plex nanoparticle detection), multimodal nanoparticle contrast agents using FDA-approved dyes, real-time nanoparticle tracking via intravital microscopy, and optical tools for intraoperative tumor margin identification. She collaborates with surgical oncologists and the USC Center for Translational Medical Engineering to advance these technologies.