Kathryn Nightingale

Kathryn Nightingale is the Theo Pilkington Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Duke University's Pratt School of Engineering and serves as Director of Graduate Studies. With over 35 years of experience, she specializes in ultrasonic and elasticity imaging, image-guided therapies, and tissue biomechanics. Her lab develops Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) and Shear Wave Elasticity Imaging (SWEI) technologies now used clinically worldwide.

• B.S., Duke University (1989)
• Ph.D., Duke University (1997)

Her research spans:

• 3D elasticity imaging for tissue stiffness quantification
• Biomechanical modeling using finite element methods
• Integration of ultrasound systems with tissue deformation analysis
• Collaborations with Duke University Medical Center for clinical translation
• Investigations into acoustic bioeffects for patient safety

Her 15 most recent articles (2025–2023) focus on prostate cancer diagnostics, muscle anisotropy, cardiac elastography, and machine learning applications in ultrasound. Key trends include 3D imaging algorithms, transversely isotropic tissue characterization, and clinical validation through partnerships with radiology and urology departments.

Scientific accolades include:

• American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine's Joseph H. Holmes Pioneer Award (2022)
• IEEE UFFC's Carl Hellmuth Hertz Award (2021)
• Induction into the National Academy of Inventors (2019)
• Multiple teaching awards from Duke's Pratt School of Engineering
• Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (2016)

Dr. Nightingale mentors graduate students and collaborates with 15+ clinical partners across Duke Medical Center, including divisions of Gastroenterology, Radiology, Urology, and Neurology. Her lab also partners with ultrasound manufacturers for technology commercialization.