Research Topics

Nanomaterials and Microdevices for Biomedical Applications

Magnetic Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications (2020-present)

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are versatile platforms with wide-ranging biomedical applications, including magnetogenetics, biosensing, drug and gene delivery, hyperthermia therapy, and magnetic imaging. Research in this area focuses on synthesizing MNPs with enhanced magnetic properties, engineering surface functionalization for biocompatibility and molecular targeting, and performing comprehensive physicochemical and biological characterization. By tailoring their structural and magnetic properties for stronger responses and precise control, MNPs are being advanced toward next-generation systems for precision diagnostics and effective, noninvasive therapies.

Magnetic Microdevices for Next-Generation Neurostimulation (2018-present)

This research topic 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 advantages of transcranial magnetic stimulation, reducing the risks of inflammation, biofouling, and surgical revisions. The long-term goal of this topic includes safer and more effective neuromodulation therapies for neurological disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and chronic pain.

Medical Devices

Magnetic Particle Imaging for Precision Diagnostics (2022-Present)

Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is a non-invasive technique that directly detects magnetic nanoparticle tracers, generating 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 scalability position MPI as a transformative tool for precision medicine and theranostics, with applications in early disease detection and real-time monitoring of targeted drug delivery.

GMR Biosensing for Point-of-Care Diagnostics (2013-2022)

Giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors detect weak magnetic signals with exceptional sensitivity, enabling rapid, portable, and multiplexed detection of biomolecules labeled with magnetic tags. Their compact design, CMOS compatibility, and low power consumption make them ideal for scalable point-of-care diagnostic platforms. Applications include viral detection, cancer biomarker monitoring, and other precision assays, with the potential to expand diagnostic accessibility in both clinical and resource-limited settings.

MPS Biosensing for Point-of-Care Diagnostics (2014-2022)

Magnetic particle spectroscopy (MPS) detects target biomarkers in liquid samples by monitoring the dynamic magnetization of functionalized nanoparticles. This wash-free, one-step assay format enables rapid and quantitative biomarker detection with high sensitivity and reproducibility. MPS platforms are adaptable for identifying infectious diseases, cancer biomarkers, and other health indicators, providing scalable and portable solutions for point-of-care diagnostics. Their speed and sensitivity make them particularly relevant for pandemic response, global health, and decentralized testing.

Fundamental Research on Materials

2D Materials (2024-present)

This research explores orbital–phonon coupling and magneto-optical phenomena in two-dimensional materials to uncover new pathways for tuning magnetic responses. Magneto-Raman spectroscopy and interface engineering reveal how orbital–phonon hybridization and interfacial coupling can induce or enhance magnetism in otherwise nonmagnetic systems. These findings provide a foundation for designing low-dimensional materials with controllable magnetic functionalities for quantum and biomedical applications.

Micromagnetic Modeling for Spintronic Quantum Devices (2018-2020)

Micromagnetic modeling provides a predictive framework for designing and optimizing spintronic quantum devices that exploit quantum spin phenomena for computing, data storage, and biomedical applications. By simulating nanoscale magnetic dynamics under applied fields or charge currents, this work elucidates the behavior of skyrmions, domain walls, and spin Hall nano-oscillators. The insights gained enable precise control of spintronic performance and stability, accelerating advances in quantum information processing, energy-efficient memory, and magnetic biosensing.

AI for Healthcare

AI for Disease Diagnosis (2024-present)

This research applies machine learning and computer vision to address pressing challenges in medical diagnostics. Projects include image-based tumor detection, automated skin burn segmentation for treatment guidance, and computational analysis of behavioral data to infer affective states. These approaches aim to enhance diagnostic accuracy, enable personalized treatments, and expand access to affordable and timely healthcare.

Related Publications: arXiv:2501.11196; arXiv:2411.17870