Assistant Professor, Bioengineering Northeastern Univiersity

Prof. Tao Sun is an Assistant Professor of Bioengineering and a core member of Institute of Chemical Imaging of Living Systems (CILS) at Northeastern University. He joined Northeastern in January 2023 after postdoctoral trainings from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Engineering School (Bioengineering), and an Instructor role with Harvard Medical School. His group works at the intersection of focused ultrasound (FUS), neuroimaging and immunoengineering with expertise in developing ultrasound devices, imaging methods and engineered cell systems to modulate the neuro-immune interface and their applications in immunomodulation, drug delivery, and cell-based theranostic systems.

The goal of his research program is to unveil how FUS modulates the neuroimmune disease/aging environment and to develop ultrasound-based techniques for treating and monitoring neurological disorders, such as glioblastoma and Alzheimer's disease, and beyond. Tao has received many recognitions for his scientific contributions to the fields of FUS, drug delivery, cancer immunoengineering, and neuroimaging. He is a recipient of the Young Investigator Awards from Focused Ultrasound Foundation and Acoustical Society of America. Many of his works were featured in mainstream science and technology media including WIRED (https://www.wired.com/story/the-second-coming-of-ultrasound/), Science Daily, and Medical Xpress.

Max serves as the Chief Feline Officer in Dr. Tao Sun’s lab, bringing invaluable charm and stress relief. His strategic purring and expert napping enhance the lab's atmosphere, ensuring a collaborative and productive environment. Max’s discerning gaze often offers unexpected insights into research activities. Beyond his official duties, he enjoys lounging in sunbeams and playfully interacting with lab equipment. His presence not only uplifts team morale but also adds a unique touch to the daily lab routine.