Jin Xie, an associate professor of chemistry, is using nanotechnology to make chemotherapy and radiation therapy more effective while minimizing their toxic side effects.
Where did you earn degrees and what are your current responsibilities at UGA?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Nanjing University in China and doctorate in chemistry from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. I am currently an associate professor in the department of chemistry, part of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. I teach and conduct research in nanotechnology, imaging and drug delivery.
When did you come to UGA and what brought you here?
I joined the faculty of UGA in 2011. I chose UGA because it is an excellent place to start my career. The research environment is great, the department is supportive, and the people are welcoming. My wife and I like the weather here, too.
What are your favorite courses and why?
I redeveloped the nanomaterials course, and I enjoy teaching it. Nanotechnology, especially nanobiotechnology, is a highly interdisciplinary field, and it is rapidly evolving. In this course, I not only introduce basic nanoparticle synthesis methods and characterizations but also talk about the frontier breakthroughs that make an impact in the clinic and in daily lives.
What are some highlights of your career at UGA?
I received the Elsa U. Pardee Fellowship Award in 2014 and the Department of Defense Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program Idea Award in 2015. I also was awarded the prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER award in 2016.
How do you describe the scope and impact of your research or scholarship to people outside of your field?
We are developing nanoparticle therapeutics that can improve chemotherapy and radiation therapy efficacy without inducing extra toxicities. We believe some of the technologies have a great potential in clinical translation and we are working actively toward the goal.
How does your research or scholarship inspire your teaching, and vice versa?
I learn from research on a daily basis, and I incorporate these materials in my teaching. I think it is a good way to narrow the gap between classic textbooks and modern research.
What do you hope students gain from their classroom experience with you?
That learning is a lifelong process. It may not be always fun, but is always rewarding.
Describe your ideal student.
Independent, inquisitive, self-demanding and responsible.
Favorite place to be/thing to do on campus is …
I like taking a walk through campus, especially in the fall. The Ramsey Student Center also is a great place to relax.
Beyond the UGA campus, I like to …
Hanging out with my family and friends, watching movies and reading.
Favorite book/movie (and why)?
“The Lord of the Rings”; I have watched the series many times. “Tao Te Ching” is a great book. Every time I read it, I learn something new.
The one UGA experience I will always remember will be …
A surprise party my students threw to celebrate me getting tenured.
