Magnetic Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are versatile tools with wide-ranging biomedical uses, including magnetogenetics, biosensing, targeted drug delivery, hyperthermia therapy, and imaging. Research in this area focuses on engineering MNPs with enhanced magnetic properties, surface functionalization for biocompatibility and targeting, and comprehensive performance characterization. By tailoring their properties for stronger responses and finer control, MNPs are being advanced into next-generation platforms for precision diagnostics and effective, noninvasive therapies.
Related Publications: Small (2024)
; Advanced Healthcare Materials (2024); ACS Applied Nano Materials (2021); Elsevier (Book, 2024).
Magnetic Particle Imaging for Precision Diagnostics
Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is a non-invasive technique that directly detects nanoparticle tracers, producing high-contrast, real-time maps of their distribution in the body. Unlike MRI, MPI has no tissue background signal, allowing highly sensitive and quantitative imaging of blood flow, organ function, inflammation, and tumors. Its rapid imaging speed, safety, and potential for human-scale translation position MPI as a powerful tool for precision medicine and theranostics, with applications ranging from early disease detection to monitoring drug delivery in real time.
Related Publications: Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics (2025); AIP Advances (2025); Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics (2025); IEEE Transactions on Magnetics (2025); Physica Scripta (2025)
Magnetic Microdevices for Next-Generation Neurostimulation
This research explores magnetic microdevices as an alternative to traditional electrical implants for neural stimulation. These devices generate localized, time-varying magnetic fields that induce electric fields in nearby neurons, enabling micrometer-scale, spatially confined activation without direct tissue contact. This approach combines the precision of implantable devices with the noninvasive benefits of transcranial magnetic stimulation, potentially reducing risks of inflammation, biofouling, and surgical revisions. The long-term impact includes safer, more effective therapies for neurological disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and chronic pain.
Related Publications: Biomedical Physics & Engineering Express (2025); Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology B (2024); Journal of Neural Engineering (2023); Nanotechnology (2022); Journal of Neural Engineering (2022)
GMR Biosensing for Point-of-Care Diagnostics
Giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors detect weak magnetic signals with exceptional sensitivity, enabling rapid and portable detection of biomolecules labeled with magnetic tags. Their compact form, high sensitivity, and CMOS compatibility make them ideal for low-cost, point-of-care diagnostic platforms. Applications include viral detection, cancer biomarker monitoring, and multiplexed assays, with the potential to improve accessibility of precision diagnostics in both clinical and resource-limited settings.
Related Publications: Frontiers in Microbiology (2016); ACS Sensors (2017); Biosensors and Bioelectronics (2019); ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2022); Frontiers in Microbiology (2019); npj Spintronics (2024); ACS Applied Bio Materials (2023); Advanced Materials Interfaces (2023); Sensors and Actuators A: Physical (2023).
MPS Biosensing for Point-of-Care Diagnostics
Magnetic particle spectroscopy (MPS) leverages the dynamic magnetization of functionalized nanoparticles to detect target biomarkers in liquid samples. This technology supports one-step, wash-free assays with rapid, quantitative readout. MPS platforms can be adapted for detecting infectious diseases, cancer biomarkers, and other health indicators, offering scalable solutions for point-of-care diagnostics. Their speed, sensitivity, and portability make MPS highly relevant for pandemic response, global health, and decentralized testing.
Related Publications: ACS Applied Nano Materials (2020); ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2020); ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2021); ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2019); Small (2017); ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2021); The Journal of Physical Chemistry C (2021); The Journal of Physical Chemistry C (2022); ACS Applied Nano Materials (2022).
Micromagnetic Modeling for Spintronic Quantum Devices
Micromagnetic modeling is a powerful tool for designing and optimizing spintronic quantum devices, which harness quantum phenomena for applications in computing, data storage, and biomedicine. By predicting the time evolution of nanoscale magnetic configurations under conditions such as charge currents or external magnetic fields, modeling enables precise control and tailoring of device performance. This research spans skyrmion and domain wall dynamics, as well as the behavior of spin Hall nano-oscillators, offering insights that drive the development of next-generation spintronic systems. The broader impact includes advancing quantum information technologies, enabling high-density and energy-efficient data storage, and supporting biomedical innovations such as diagnostic biosensing and therapeutic neuromodulation.
Related Publications: Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials (2019); Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics (2019); Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics (2019); The Journal of Physical Chemistry C (2019); Journal of Applied Physics (2019); Nanotechnology (2020).
Machine Learning for Healthcare
This research program develops machine learning tools to address pressing challenges in healthcare. Projects include image-based tumor diagnosis, automated skin burn segmentation for treatment guidance, and computational analysis of behavioral stimuli to infer affective states. These approaches aim to improve diagnostic accuracy, personalize treatment, and expand access to affordable and timely healthcare.
Related Publications: arXiv:2501.11196; arXiv:2411.17870.