Ji-Xin Cheng Named William Fairfield Warren Distinguished Professor
On September 23, 2026, Professor Ji-Xin Cheng, Distinguished Professor of Electrical, Computer, Biomedical, and Materials Science Engineering at Boston University, was named a William Fairfield Warren Distinguished Professor, one of Boston University’s highest distinctions for senior faculty. Established in 2008, the professorship recognizes faculty who have made significant contributions to research, scholarship, teaching, and the University community.
Professor Cheng is recognized for his pioneering work in chemical imaging and photothermal microscopy, which enables highly sensitive visualization of molecular bonds and cellular chemistry. Over more than two decades, his research has advanced label-free and bond-selective imaging approaches for studying biological systems and disease, including the discovery of biomarkers associated with aggressive prostate cancer. His research has also contributed to the translation of photothermal microscopy into commercial chemical imaging technologies used by laboratories worldwide. Reflecting on his research journey, Cheng shared, “If you chase something people don’t believe in, that’s harder than chasing a hot topic. But it can be an opportunity. I took the harder way.”
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