Jina Ko

Dr. Jina Ko has a profound understanding of the intricate interplay between engineering and medicine, which she leverages to advance the field of medical diagnostics. As an Assistant Professor in Bioengineering and Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Ko is at the forefront of research that bridges the gap between innovative engineering solutions and clinical applications. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from Rice University in 2013, followed by a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania in 2018, where she honed her expertise in bioengineering. Dr. Ko's research interests are centered around the development of cutting-edge technologies in medical diagnostics, with a particular focus on droplet microfluidics, biomarker discovery, and microfabrication. Her work aims to revolutionize the way diseases are diagnosed and monitored, making healthcare more efficient and accessible. Through her research, Dr. Ko seeks to uncover novel biomarkers that can provide deeper insights into disease mechanisms and patient health. Throughout her career, Dr. Ko has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field. She has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious President's Honor Roll at Rice University and the Sol Pollack Award for Best Thesis of the Year at the University of Pennsylvania. Her innovative work has also earned her the title of Rising Stars in Engineering in Health at Columbia University, highlighting her as a leading figure in the integration of engineering and health sciences. In addition to her research, Dr. Ko is actively involved in several professional organizations, including the National Institute of Health. Her participation in these organizations underscores her commitment to advancing the field of bioengineering and fostering collaboration among researchers and clinicians. Dr. Ko's work not only contributes to the academic community but also has the potential to impact patient care on a global scale. Dr. Ko's dedication to her field is evident in her continuous pursuit of knowledge and innovation. She is passionate about mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers, guiding them to explore the intersections of technology and medicine. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the application of engineering principles to solve real-world medical challenges. As a thought leader in her field, Dr. Ko continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in medical diagnostics. Her visionary approach and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to the University of Pennsylvania and the broader scientific community. Through her work, Dr. Ko is paving the way for a future where advanced diagnostic tools are readily available, improving patient outcomes and transforming healthcare delivery.