Jiang Tian, assistant president of Nanjing University, presided over a welcoming ceremony on 11/6 for Professor Chen joining the faculty of Nanjing University's School of Biomedical Engineering at its Suzhou campus.

"Professor Chen has long been deeply involved with leading universities abroad, achieving outstanding accomplishments in cutting-edge fields such as cellular biomechanics and organ-on-a-chip technology," Jiang said. "His decision to join Nanjing University during the peak of his academic career, coupled with his sincere dedication and profound trust, is deeply moving."

Professor Chen Weiqiang (right) receives a gift from Nanjing University assistant president Jiang Tian at the Suzhou campus on 11/6. *Photo: News Science*

Professor Chen earned his bachelor's degree from the Department of Physics, Nanjing University in 2005. By 2008, he received his master's degree in electrical engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

He then went to the US for further studies, graduating with a master's degree from Purdue University, Indiana, in 2009, and a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan in 2014. In 2014, he joined New York University (NYU) as an assistant professor of mechanical engineering.

At NYU, he developed the "cancer-on-a-chip" method to study several types of cancer in a simulated environment. This research provides a way to monitor how malignant cancer cells behave under normal human body conditions, opening a new direction for future cancer treatments.

The technology can simulate a cancer patient's specific tissue environment using their own cells, allowing for pre-testing of treatments directly on the chip to ensure effectiveness before application to the patient's body.

In 2020, Chen was promoted to associate professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering at NYU. Three years later, he was elected an honorary fellow of the American Heart Association (AHA) for his contributions to biomedical science. The AHA is one of the world's leading organizations for cardiovascular and stroke professionals.

AHA honorary fellows are recognized for "excellence, innovation, and sustained contributions in research, practice, and/or education, as well as volunteer activities within the AHA."

Chen has published nearly 70 peer-reviewed academic papers and led over 20 major international scientific research projects with total funding exceeding 63 million yuan (approximately 13,2 million USD).

He also helped establish the world's first data research center for new-generation animal replacement methods at NYU. In 3/2024, he was promoted to tenured professor (can only be dismissed in very rare cases) of mechanical and biomedical engineering at the university.

In 5/2026, his personal website updated his new title as professor at Nanjing University, and he officially started work on 1/6.

At the inauguration ceremony at Nanjing University, Professor Chen recalled his student academic experiences there. He affirmed his commitment to continuing his research, delving into cutting-edge fields, focusing on nurturing talent, and working to promote academic discipline development and the integration of industry, academia, and research.

"My decision to return is primarily based on personal career development and family reasons; I am not concerned with political changes in the US," Professor Chen Weiqiang said.

Nanjing University's School of Biomedical Engineering was established in 12/2025 with the aim of becoming a world-class engineering institution, focusing on life sciences, medical technology, and clinical needs.

In the latest Nature Index academic rankings for 2026, Nanjing University ranked 9th globally, while New York University ranked 72nd.

Hong Hanh *According to SCMP*