Jeff Saucerman

Jeff Saucerman, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Virginia. His research integrates computational modeling with high-throughput experimental approaches to study molecular networks underlying cardiac remodeling, regeneration, and disease. He holds appointments in systems biology, cardiovascular disease, and regenerative medicine, leveraging machine learning and omics data to identify therapeutic targets.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Bioengineering, University of California San Diego (2005)
• B.S. in Engineering Science, Pennsylvania State University (2000)

Research Focus:

• Cardiac Systems Biology: Mapping networks controlling heart function and failure
• Machine Learning: AI-driven drug repurposing and phenotypic analysis
• Inflammation-Fibrosis: Interactions in post-infarction healing
• Regenerative Medicine: Cardiomyocyte proliferation and tissue repair

Awards:

• 2023: Fellow, American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering
• 2023: UVA BME Graduate Mentoring Award
• 2018: Vivian Pinn Scholars Award
• 2014: Fellow, American Heart Association
• 2013: NSF CAREER Award
• 2012: Dean's Excellence in Teaching Award

Grants & Projects:

• NIH-funded work on lipoprotein receptors in heart failure
• Cardiac hypertrophy mechanisms via multi-scale modeling
• Inflammation-fibrosis coupling in myocardial infarction
• Cardiac regeneration through genomic and drug screening

His lab is pioneering AI tools for drug discovery, such as identifying escitalopram's heart-healing potential, and collaborates on lymphangiogenesis in cancer therapy. He teaches computational and systems bioengineering courses, emphasizing translational research and student mentorship.