معرفی
Steven Hicks, MD, PhD is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Academic General Pediatrics at Penn State College of Medicine. He serves as director of the Pediatric Clinical Research Office and is affiliated with the Penn State Neuroscience Institute. His translational research focuses on identifying molecular biomarkers that inform child growth, neurodevelopment and disease.
Education:
- Residency, SUNY Upstate Medical University (2015)
- MD, SUNY Upstate Medical University (2012)
- PhD, SUNY Upstate Medical University (2012)
- BS, Marist College (2005)
Dr. Hicks' research spans three primary areas that intersect molecular biology and pediatric medicine. His autism spectrum disorder work has identified alterations in the oral microbiome and microtranscriptome that aid early diagnosis, resulting in a CLIA-certified diagnostic aid in 2019. His breastmilk micro-transcriptomics research explores how non-coding RNA factors impact infant health outcomes like weight gain. His concussion research investigates salivary microRNA profiles for traumatic brain injury management, featured in NPR, CBS News, and named among the "10 Most Talked About JAMA Peds Articles of 2018".
Dr. Hicks' scholarly contributions demonstrate consistent translation of molecular discoveries into clinical applications, with research published in high-impact journals including JAMA Pediatrics, Autism Research, and Frontiers in Genetics.
Scientific Awards:
- Department of Pediatrics Top Educator Award (2016)
- Graduate Medical Education Resident Research Award (2015)
- Investigator to Watch Award (2018)
- Outstanding Early (Faculty) Career Development Award (2020)
- Outstanding Early-Stage Investigator Award (2018)
As an educator, Dr. Hicks has mentored over 25 students who have presented at conferences, co-authored publications, and secured research grants. His NIH-funded research includes projects on autism biomarkers, breastmilk micro-transcriptomics, and concussion diagnostics. Since joining Penn State in 2015, he has lectured at numerous symposiums including Pediatric Grand Rounds and the Neuroscience Lecture Series.
Dr. Hicks leads the Pediatric Research Resources Office and serves as diagnostic thrust leader for Penn State's Center for Biodevices, bridging clinical pediatrics with innovative diagnostic technologies.
