Dr. Diane Hoffman Kim

Biography

Diane Hoffman-Kim is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Brown University, specializing in Medical Science Engineering. Her academic journey includes a B.S. in Optics Engineering from the University of Rochester and a Ph.D. in Medical Science from Brown University, complemented by postdoctoral training at M.I.T., Harvard, and the Bunting Institute. Professor Hoffman-Kim teaches courses in tissue engineering and biomedical engineering. Her research focuses on elucidating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie axon guidance and the formation of precise connections in the nervous system, particularly regarding nerve regeneration following injury. The long-term goal of her laboratory is to apply this knowledge to develop biomaterials and tissue-engineered nerve substitutes to promote nerve regeneration. Additionally, her work encompasses using engineering techniques on biological systems in vitro to address challenges in growing neurons with various guidance cues. She has received several funding awards, including a CAREER Award from the National Science Foundation, highlighting her commitment to advancing the field of biomedical engineering and tissue engineering through innovative research.

Research Interests

Experience