Kelsey Kubelick, Ph.D.
About
Kelsey Kubelick leads an interdisciplinary, applications-driven, biomedical imaging research program. Her lab team leverages light, sound, nanoconstruct design, and cellular engineering strategies to develop advanced theranostic imaging techniques, with a particular interest in ultrasound and photoacoustic (PA) technologies.
PA imaging is a hybrid acoustic and optical modality, in which pulsed laser light irradiation of optical absorbers ultimately produces a sound wave. The unique mechanism of PA signal generation enables deep, optical contrast that complements ultrasound. Together, US/PA imaging conveys cellular, molecular, and functional information with anatomical context in vivo. By developing a versatile set of imaging tools, her lab customizes US/PA imaging approaches to provide guidance, diagnostic feedback, and enhance therapies in vivo in a variety of contexts. Examples include guiding regenerative therapies by tracking stem cell location/status and monitoring adoptive T cells to inform strategies to enhance cancer immunotherapies.
In addition, Dr. Kubelick is passionate about biomedical innovation for resource-limited settings. During her graduate and postdoctoral years, she co-founded and led a Capstone program focused on locally-sustainable, medical device development to address health disparities and solve unmet clinical needs in global health.
We are currently recruiting at all levels. Interested candidates are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Kubelick directly at kpkubelick@virginia.edu.
Education
Postdoctoral Research and Teaching Fellow, Georgia Institute of Technology, 2024
Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 2020
M.Eng. in Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 2014
B.A. Biological Sciences, University of Chicago, 2012
For our lab, biomedical imaging is a key research focus, but not an isolated interest. We are excited about developing imaging technologies that integrate biology, nanotechnology, and therapy to create unique theranostic platforms.
Research Interests
Selected Publications
Kubelick, K.P.,* Snider, E.J.,* Ethier, C.R., and Emelianov, S.Y. *EQUAL CONTRIBUTION.
Courses Taught
Awards
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Kelsey Kubelick Joins the Department of Biomedical Engineering at UVA
Read NowKubelick develops imaging tools to track the movement and efficacy of T cells deployed in cancer therapies, aiming ultimately to enhance the cells’ defensive abilities.