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Welcome to Our Research Group

At Zhu lab, we are dedicated to advancing the frontiers of biomedical optics and radiation science to improve healthcare outcomes. Our interdisciplinary team specializes in cutting-edge research across four key areas: Dosimetry of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), Cherenkov Imaging, External Beam Dose Calculation and Photobiomodulation (PBM).

We explore the therapeutic potential of PDT to target and treat diseases such as cancer, leveraging light-activated photosensitizers to achieve precision and efficacy. Through Cherenkov Imaging, we harness the unique properties of Cherenkov radiation to develop innovative imaging techniques for real-time visualization in radiation therapy and beyond. Our work in photobiomodulation investigates the dosimetry of low-level light to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and manage pain, offering non-invasive solutions for a range of clinical applications. Additionally, our expertise in dosimetry ensures accurate measurement and optimization of radiation and light doses, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.

By integrating advanced computational tools, experimental methodologies, and clinical collaborations, our group aims to translate scientific discoveries into impactful medical technologies. Join us on our mission to illuminate new pathways in precision medicine and improve patient care through the power of light and radiation.

Lab Highlights

  • We are thrilled to announce that our graduating Ph.D. student, Corrine (Hongjing Sun), has successfully matched with the prestigious Medical Physics Residency Program at Johns Hopkins University. We are incredibly proud of her hard work and dedication. Please join us in wishing her the very best as she embarks on this next exciting chapter of her career!
  • We are pleased to announce that Rob Duke joined the lab on June 1, 2026 as a SURF (Super) student. Rob will focus on advancing BPD-based fractionated photodynamic therapy (PDT), as well as singlet oxygen dosimetry (SOD) and related methodologies including TSOLD. We look forward to his contributions to optimizing treatment efficacy and dosimetric precision.

  • We are delighted to announce that Dr. Jisoo Kang will join our group on July 1, 2026 as a postdoctoral fellow in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Dr. Kang earned his PhD in Physical Chemistry from Brown University and brings a strong background in fundamental and applied photochemistry.

    In addition, he has been successfully admitted to our CAMPEP-accredited Medical Physics Certificate Program, which he will complete during his training in the lab. We look forward to his contributions to advancing PDT research and translational applications.

Zhu-Lab News

  • Lab Team Completes NSF I-Corps Program Monday, June 1, 2026

    We are proud to share that our lab team—Dennis Sourvanos (Entrepreneurial Lead), Timothy C. Zhu (Technical Lead), Andreea Dimofte (Co-Technical Lead), and Tomas Isakowitz (Industry Mentor)—successfully completed the prestigious NSF National I-Corps™ program on April 17, 2026.

    The intensive 7-week program is designed to accelerate the translation of innovations into real-world impact. As part of the program, the team conducted over 100 stakeholder interviews to evaluate and refine the Smart Dosimetry System for oral mucositis (OM). This experience provided critical insights into clinical needs, market opportunities, and pathways toward commercialization.

     

  • Completion of NIH C3i Program on PBM for OM Tuesday, June 2, 2026

    We are excited to announce that Dennis Sourvanos, Timothy C. Zhu, and Andreea Dimofte have successfully completed Phase I and Phase II of the NIH Concept to Clinic: Commercializing Innovation (C3i) program, administered by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB).

    The program ran from September 29, 2025, to April 29, 2026, and supported the team’s efforts to explore and advance photobiomodulation (PBM) treatment strategies for oral mucositis (OM). Through this initiative, the team gained valuable experience in translational research, regulatory considerations, and commercialization pathways.

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Zhu Lab Activities

  • PDT monthly meeting 10:00 to 11:00 AM EST

    The PDT group meeting is held in collaboration with Prof. Robert Hadfield from the University of Glasgow and Prof. Brian Wilson from the University of Toronto.

  • Zhu lab group meeting 10:00 am to 11:00 am

    The Zhu Lab group meeting takes place on the second Tuesday of each month to provide updates on the progress of ongoing research projects.

  • Cherenkov monthly meeting 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

    The Cherenkov monthly meeting, in collaboration with Prof. Brian Pogue from Dartmouth College, takes place every Monday of the third week each month.