Dr. Jiyoung Ahn

Biography

Jiyoung Ahn, Ph.D., is a Professor and Associate Center Director of Population Science at the NYU Perlmutter Cancer Center, recognized nationally for her contributions to cancer prevention and her expertise in human microbiome research, genomics, and molecular biomarkers through large cohort studies. As Principal Investigator on five NIH-funded research projects, she has developed critical insights into how oral microbiome dysbiosis is causally linked to orodigestive cancer, spearheading seminal studies that connect periodontal disease with cancer risk. Her team's work has significantly advanced the understanding of the role of oral pathogenic bacteria in predicting head and neck cancer and esophageal cancer risks. Furthermore, mechanistic investigations have revealed how cancer-associated oral microbiota metabolize carcinogens, providing valuable knowledge for public health. These pioneering studies inform guidelines, including insights seen in the U.S. Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health. Her research interests include Epidemiology, Microbiome, Cancer, Environment, Diet, and Asian American Health, supported by her academic tenure and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Research Interests

Experience