by
Keri Stephens, Contributing Reporter | December 26, 2025
Washington University in St. Louis
The Focused Ultrasound Foundation has designated Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) a Focused Ultrasound Center of Excellence (COE) for its contributions to advancing the technology.
The new COE brings together over 30 faculty members from 11 departments, spanning biomedical engineering, neuroscience, and translational medicine. Led by Hong Chen, Ph.D., and Jan Kubanek, Ph.D., the team is investigating the potential of focused ultrasound for conditions such as brain tumors, chronic pain, PTSD, and fibromyalgia.
WashU’s research efforts are substantial. The team has secured more than $40 million in funding, published over 100 research papers, and initiated five clinical trials. With 27 patents filed, the university is committed to turning research into clinical practice, says Chen.
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“This designation reflects the power of collaboration at WashU,” Chen said. “The university’s interdisciplinary environment, leadership, and strong partnerships across engineering, medicine, and science have been key to our success in focused ultrasound.”
Kubanek concurs, adding, “WashU faculty are committed to tackling some of healthcare’s most complex challenges. We work together to bring rigor to every aspect of our efforts, from research to device translation and education.”
Beyond research, WashU has made a concerted effort to train the next generation of focused ultrasound professionals. Drs. Chen and Kubanek teach courses on the subject and mentor graduate students. Several former trainees are now leading their own research projects in the field.
It’s this commitment that prompted the Focused Ultrasound Foundation to take notice, according to Neal F. Kassell, M.D., founder and chairman of the foundation. “Washington University continues to lead the way in focused ultrasound research,” Kassell said. “This recognition acknowledges the university’s ongoing contributions to the field and its tangible impact on patient care.”
With this COE designation, WashU joins an international network of institutions dedicated to expanding the applications of focused ultrasound for the benefit of patients worldwide.
