Junjie Yaoمشاهده پروفایل
دانشیار
Junjie Yao is the Jeffrey N. Vinik Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Duke University's Pratt School of Engineering. He holds multiple appointments including Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Associate Director of External Partnerships in the Fitzpatrick Institute of Photonics, Affiliate of the Duke Global Health Institute, Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, and Member of the Duke Cancer Institute. His research focuses on developing cutting-edge photoacoustic tomography (PAT) technologies and translating these advances into diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Dr. Yao received his Ph.D. from Washington University in St. Louis in 2012. His research interests span photoacoustic tomography technologies, with particular emphasis on functional brain imaging and early cancer theranostics. At his PI-Lab, he develops PAT technologies with advanced imaging performance in spatial resolutions, imaging speed, penetration depth, detection sensitivity, and functionality. His work encompasses all aspects of PAT technology innovations, including efficient light illumination, high-sensitivity ultrasonic detection, super-resolution PAT, high-speed imaging acquisition, novel PA genetic contrast, and precise image reconstruction. Dr. Yao's publication record demonstrates consistent innovation in photoacoustic imaging, with a clear progression from fundamental technology development toward clinical applications. His recent work (2023-2025) shows a strong focus on deep-tissue imaging, super-resolution techniques, multimodal integration (particularly combining photoacoustic with ultrasound and other modalities), and translation to specific clinical applications including brain imaging, cancer detection, and urological procedures. His research increasingly incorporates machine learning approaches for image reconstruction and enhancement, while maintaining strong emphasis on the physical principles underlying photoacoustic phenomena. Fellow, Optica (formally OSA), 2022 Early Career Development (CAREER) Award, National Science Foundation (NSF), 2022 Young Investigator Award, IEEE Photonics Society, 2019 Collaborative Sciences Award, American Heart Association, 2018 Multiple Seno Medical Best Paper Awards at SPIE conferences (2013, 2015, 2016) Dr. Yao has secured significant research funding from major organizations including the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, American Heart Association, and industry partners. His current grants include a $750,000 NSF CAREER award for mapping deep brain functions, multiple NIH R01 grants for stroke research and kidney stone treatment, and industry collaborations with Eli Lilly. His lab actively collaborates with clinical researchers across Duke, particularly in neurology, oncology, and urology, demonstrating strong translational focus. Dr. Yao's PI-Lab serves as a hub for developing and disseminating PAT technologies to both research and clinical communities, with particular emphasis on making these advanced imaging capabilities accessible for studying tumor angiogenesis, cancer hypoxia, brain disorders, and for clinical applications in cancer screening and melanoma staging.




