E. Duco Jansen

E. Duco Jansen is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and affiliated with the Department of Neurological Surgery at Vanderbilt University’s School of Engineering. His research focuses on laser-tissue interaction, optical neural interfaces, and applications of light-based technologies in medicine. He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Texas, and an M.S. in Medical Biology from Utrecht University.

Research Interests: Dr. Jansen investigates modulation of neural activity using infrared light, cellular effects of laser stimuli, and biomedical imaging advancements. His work bridges engineering and medicine, with contributions to photodynamic therapy dosimetry, neural stimulation mechanisms, and tissue phantom development.

Key Contributions: He co-leads the Vanderbilt Biophotonics Center, fostering interdisciplinary research in clinical photonics, neurophotonics, and multiscale photonics. His recent work includes developing optical systems for nerve monitoring, understanding calcium signaling in neurons, and creating epoxy resin tissue phantoms for imaging calibration.

Grants & Labs: As part of the Biophotonics Center’s Scientific Advisory Committee, he collaborates across Engineering, Medicine, and Arts & Science schools. His lab focuses on translating optical technologies into clinical solutions, such as reversible nerve blocks and non-invasive neural interfaces.

Labs/Teams: Active in the Biomedical Photonics Center, contributing to educational programs for students and clinicians in photonics applications. His research group develops novel optical tools for neurosurgery and biomedicine.