News

Dr. Ji-Xin Cheng Promoted to Theodore Moustakas Distinguished Professor of Photonics and Optoelectronics

January 30th, 2026

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Ji-Xin Cheng has been promoted to Theodore Moustakas Distinguished Professor of Photonics and Optoelectronics by the College of Engineering at Boston University. This distinguished appointment recognizes Dr. Cheng’s exceptional scholarly achievements, visionary research leadership, and profound impact on the optics and photonics community.

Dr. Cheng’s pioneering work spans inventive imaging technologies and transformative research at the interface of photonics, biology, and chemistry. Since joining Boston University, he has demonstrated extraordinary creativity, sustained research excellence, and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers.

The endowed professorship honors not only Dr. Cheng’s remarkable scientific contributions (including over 160 publications, an h-index of 110, and approximately $35 million in research funding), but also his leadership in innovation, education, and entrepreneurship. His work has led to numerous licensed patents, successful startup companies, and adopted technologies, which translates fundamental discovery into real-world impact.

Warmly congratulate Dr. Cheng on this deserved recognition and celebrating this important milestone in his career!

Dr. Ji-Xin Cheng Elected Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors

December 15th, 2025

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Cheng has been elected a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) (A link to BU ECE news). This prestigious honor recognizes inventors who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to innovation, technology development, and the translation of academic research into real-world applications.

Election as an NAI Fellow is the highest professional distinction awarded by the Academy, honoring academic inventors whose work enhances quality of life, economic development, and societal well-being. This recognition highlights Dr. Cheng’s leadership in innovation and his continued commitment to bridging fundamental science and practical applications.

Warmly congratulate Dr. Cheng on this well-deserved honor!

Professor Cheng Appointed Associate Director to Lead New Chemical Imaging Initiative

December 8th, 2025

The Photonics Center has launched a new Chemical Imaging Initiative (CII) to advance cell-scale chemical understanding through cutting-edge imaging technologies. Chemical imaging, capable of visualizing biomolecules in living cells with high speed and sensitivity, has already driven breakthroughs in cancer research, neurodegeneration, and environmental science.

Building on the Center’s existing strengths across CAS, ENG, and MED, the initiative aims to unite students and faculty to tackle major scientific challenges and attract external support through major grants and training programs.

As part of CII, the Photonics Center will provide modest initial funds for workshops and collaborations, administrative support for planning and proposal development, and a series of academic activities including symposia, summer schools, student fellowships, and distinguished lectures.

Prof. Ji-Xin Cheng, Moustakas Chair Professor in Optoelectronics and Photonics, has been appointed Associate Director for Strategic Initiatives to lead the research strategy for this effort.

Read more on the website.

Professor Cheng Delivers Inaugural CBMI Distinguished Lecture at Nanjing University

September 24th, 2025

On August 25, 2025, Professor Ji-Xin Cheng delivered the inaugural CBMI (Chemical and Biomedical Imaging) Distinguished Lecture at Nanjing University. His lecture marked the beginning of this prestigious series, highlighting cutting-edge advances in imaging science and inspiring future collaboration in the field.

Celebration of Chinmayee and Carolyn for BME PhD graduation

September 21st, 2025

On September 18, 2025, the Cheng Group gathered to celebrate the PhD graduation of Chinmayee and Carolyn. To honor their achievements, a special T-shirt featuring the results they are most proud of was gifted to them, with every group member adding their signature and heartfelt wishes. We are thrilled to celebrate this important milestone and look forward to the impact they will make as they begin the next chapter of their careers. Congratulations!