Tsu-Te Judith Su, PhD

Clinical and Translational Oncology Program

Biography

Judith Su is an Assistant Professor in Biomedical Engineering and in Optical Sciences at the University of Arizona. She is also a Visiting Associate at Caltech. Judith received her B.S. and M.S. from MIT in Mechanical Engineering and her Ph.D. from Caltech in Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics. Her background is in imaging, microfabrication, and optical instrument building for biological and medical applications. Her research interests are to develop new imaging and sensing techniques to reveal basic biological functions at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Recently her work has centered on label-free single molecule detection using microtoroid optical resonators with a focus on basic research, and translational medicine.

Cancer Focus

Our group focuses on ultra-sensitive and specific label-free detection of cancer biomarkers for early detection and prognostics. We specialize in developing and characterizing new sensing platforms in collaboration with physicians. Currently, we are working on detecting circulating tumor DNA for high-risk recurring prostate cancer patients. On the treatment side, we are working on screening for drugs that can alleviate pain without negative side effects. This is important for cancer treatment.