Jonathan Kopechek (DesiCorp)
Overview
Jonathan Kopechek is an accomplished bioengineer and co-founder of DesiCorp, a pioneering company in the development of freeze-dried blood products for extended shelf-life and battlefield medicine applications. Kopechek's work primarily focuses on the use of ultrasound technology for drug delivery and cell preservation. At the University of Louisville, he holds positions as an Assistant Professor of Bioengineering and is associated with the James Graham Brown Cancer Center. His innovative research has led to significant advancements in medical technology, particularly in the preservation and transfusion of blood products.
Recent Developments
Recent activities involving Jonathan Kopechek and DesiCorp highlight ongoing advancements and contributions:
- October 2024: DesiCorp continues its mission to extend the shelf life of blood products, a crucial development for space travel, military operations, and remote medical clinics. The efforts have been supported by significant funding from NASA and the Department of Defense (DoD) to test these products in zero-gravity environments.
- July 2023: DesiCorp, along with other University of Louisville startups, received $1.2 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to further develop its blood preservation technology aimed at saving lives in critical situations.
- May 2021: Kopechek described in a publication how the partnership with Brett Janis and Michael Menze harnessed ultrasound methods for effectively freeze-drying and storing blood as a non-refrigerated powder, enhancing its usability and shelf-life.
- February 2024: Kopechek participated in the Human Research Program Investigators’ Workshop in Galveston, Texas, where preserved red blood cells for use in reduced gravity environments were discussed, underlining the potential applicability in long-term space missions.
- 2022-2023: The team's efforts led to successful commercialization phases supported by grants from the NSF Innovation Corps and SBIR programs. These funds bolstered DesiCorp's ability to push forward with clinical testing and safety validation.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jonathan A. Kopechek |
| Born | -- |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Bioengineer, Professor, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | Ultrasound technology, Freeze-dried blood products |
| Net Worth | -- |
| Education | Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati |
Early Life and Education
Jonathan Kopechek pursued his undergraduate studies in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Ohio State University, graduating cum laude in 2006. He then moved on to the University of Cincinnati where he received a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering in 2011. His academic path was marked with a focus on integrating engineering innovations with medical applications, a theme that continues in his professional career. His work was further enriched by postdoctoral training in nanotechnology for cancer at Boston University and ultrasound-focused research at the University of Pittsburgh.
Career and Notable Achievements
Jonathan Kopechek's career is a blend of academic and entrepreneurial success, majorly anchored in bioengineering advances.
- 2011-2014: Worked as a postdoctoral fellow in cutting-edge research, spanning institutions like the University of Pittsburgh and Boston University, enhancing his expertise in ultrasound technologies.
- 2016-Present: Faculty member at the University of Louisville in the Department of Bioengineering, where he conducts research and teaches future bioengineers.
- 2017: Co-founded DesiCorp, where his research on cryopreservatives and blood cell storage gained commercial traction, focusing on long-term blood storage solutions with potential military and space applications.
- 2019-2020: Played a pivotal role in the development of techniques for ultrasound-induced drug delivery, which holds promise for cancer treatment and cardiac repair.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Jonathan Kopechek continues to work as an Associate Professor at the University of Louisville, where he is also heavily involved in the activities at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center. His ongoing research focuses on the non-invasive delivery of therapeutic agents using ultrasound-responsive carriers. His work on the preservation of blood and its clinical applications continues to hold transformative potential for medical procedures in challenging environments.
Conclusion
Jonathan Kopechek represents a fusion of academic prowess and entrepreneurial spirit, endeavoring to address critical healthcare challenges through innovative engineering solutions. His work in ultrasound technology and freeze-drying blood products stands to significantly impact global healthcare, especially in fields that require logistical and practical advancements such as military medicine and space exploration. His ongoing research and its potential applications continue to promise advancements in non-invasive therapy options and preservation techniques, paving the way for a less restricted medical science horizon.