Interview with Jian Cao

Dr. Jian Cao, a Class of 1997 Penn State bioengineering alumnus, earned his doctorate working in Dr. Cheng Dong's laboratory. Dr. Cao started his studies in China through a six-year biomedical engineering program. Upon moving to the United States, he obtained his master's degree from the University of Akron before coming to Penn State to earn his doctorate.

While at Penn State his research focused primarily on cellular biomechanics, particularly the effects of white blood cell rolling and adhesion. He performed in vitro studies using a side-view flow chamber to study white blood cell motion kinetics as well as numerical studies to verify his observations.

Upon graduation from Penn State, Dr. Cao spent two years working in local start-up companies before joining Medtronic. During his time with Medtronic, he worked in product development divisions and product research. Some of the products he has worked on include implantable loop recorders for monitoring arrhythmias, implantable heart monitors, internal cardiac defibrillators, and pacemakers.

Dr. Cao believes that his time at Penn State allowed him to develop expertise in deep thinking; laboratory and engineering techniques; and presentation skills which have helped him to be successful within his field.

Cao is currently serving on the biomedical engineering department's IPAC committee. In addition, he is co-chair of the BME alumni committee.

- Kory Witmer, (M.S. '14)