Su Chin Heo

Dr. Su Chin Heo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. He also holds affiliations with the Graduate Groups in Cell and Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering.

Education:

• B.S. in Biomedical Engineering, Inje University (2006)
• M.S. in Biomedical Engineering, Inje University (2008)
• Ph.D. in Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania (2015)

Dr. Heo's research focuses on musculoskeletal cell and tissue engineering, specifically investigating the interaction between biophysical environments and cellular biology in tissue remodeling. His work utilizes advanced techniques like Super-resolution STORM microscopy to study nanoscale chromatin organization and employs bioreactors and biomaterial systems to control cellular microenvironments. He also explores therapeutic strategies for fibrous connective tissue regeneration through 3D bioprinting and electrospinning technologies.

Recent Research Trends include chemomechanical regulation of stem cell differentiation, spatial genome organization in fibrous tissues, and multiphasic tissue construct engineering. These studies bridge biomechanics with epigenetics, particularly examining how mechanical cues affect chromatin dynamics and nuclear architecture.

Scientific Awards:

• Korean-BMES Young Investigator Award (2024)

Lab Activities show a vibrant research team presenting at major conferences like the World Biomaterials Congress and ORS. The lab develops innovative scaffolds for osteochondral repair, meniscus regeneration, and rotator cuff reconstruction, while mentoring PhD students and postdoctoral fellows.