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Jingjie Hu

Jingjie Hu, PhD, is a UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center member whose research focuses on the innovative design of theranostic nanoparticles for targeted cancer therapy, particularly targeting triple-negative breast cancer.

PhD
Assistant Professor, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
North Carolina State University
Breast Cancer

Area of Interest

I am an Assistant Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and an Associate Faculty member in Biomedical Engineering.

My research focuses on the mechanical behavior of biomedical and biological materials, with an emphasis on designing, fabricating, and characterizing multifunctional bio-related structures. By integrating experimental and theoretical tools, I predict mechanical behaviors across nano-, micro-, and macro-scales.

My interdisciplinary work significantly impacts critical biomedical applications, including cancer detection and vascular embolization. My unique expertise bridges the traditionally separate fields of biomaterials and biomechanics, allowing me to employ emerging design methodologies and fabrication techniques to address complex biological challenges. This approach is crucial for adapting materials and devices to complex mechanical physiological conditions and understanding biomaterial-tissue-environment interactions.

My work addresses limitations in current embolic agents by developing multifunctional embolic agents capable of effective occlusion and therapeutic delivery.

This research aims to provide low-cost, broadly applicable engineering solutions for unmet clinical needs, benefiting patients suffering from various vascular diseases, including osteoarthritis, liver tumors, uterine fibroids, prostate hyperplasia, aneurysms, and arteriovenous malformations. Additionally, my research in cancer focuses on developing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

By exploring the mechanical properties of cancer cells and their interactions with engineered materials, I aim to improve early detection methods and develop targeted treatment options.

As an early career investigator, I am committed to advancing the understanding of mechanical interactions within biomedical and biological materials. My work combines experimental measurements with analytical and computational models to predict mechanical behaviors, with the ultimate goal of translating these findings into clinical applications for cancer and other diseases.

Find publications on PubMed

Awards and Honors

  • NIH (NIA) Trailblazer Award, 2023
  • Haythornthwaite Foundation Research Initiation Grant, 2022
  • Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Enhancement Awards, 2022
  • SB3C Diversity Participation Awards, 2021
  • 3M Adhesion Society Scholarship, 2021
  • Rising Star in Mechanical Engineering, 2020
  • Finalist, 2018 Acta Student Awards, 2019
  • Research and Travel Award for Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and Seminar (GRS) on “Science, Adhesion of,” 2019
  • Department Chair’s Fund, Princeton University, 2017-2018
  • Research and Travel Award for Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and Seminar (GRS) on “Science, Adhesion of,” 2017
  • First Year Graduate Fellowship, Princeton University, 2013-2014
  • R.M. Caddell Memorial Scholarship for excellence in materials/manufacturing research, University of Michigan, 2012
  • NSF Travel Award for the International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition (IMECE), 2012
  • James B. Angell Scholar, University of Michigan, 2011-2012
  • University Honors, University of Michigan, 2009-2012
  • Dean’s Honor List, University of Michigan, 2009-2012
  • Finalist, 41st Canadian Mathematical Olympiad (CMO), 2009
  • Gold Medal, Canadian Open Mathematics Challenge (COMC), 2008
Headshot of Jingjie Hu.