Columbia University Named a Center of Excellence by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation

Columbia University has recently been recognized as a Focused Ultrasound Center of Excellence by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation (FUSF). A recognition held by only 14 sites around the world, this designation reflects Columbia’s leadership in cutting-edge focused ultrasound research and its impact on advancing health care solutions.

This achievement is a testament to the contributions of Elisa Konofagou, Robert and Margaret Hariri Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Radiology at Columbia Engineering, and her multidisciplinary team. Konofagou has been leading cutting-edge research on focused ultrasound technologies for more than 20 years, spanning departments across three campuses. She and her collaborators have pioneered groundbreaking studies and clinical trials in blood-brain barrier opening to treat devastating diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), and brain metastases. Additionally, University researchers have made key advances in central and peripheral neuromodulation for pain and carpal tunnel syndrome and developed new approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

“Our focused ultrasound program exemplifies the University’s dedication to expansive research innovation,” said Konofagou, who has a joint appointment in neurological sciences at Columbia’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. “Across our multiple departments, Columbia researchers are making great strides for the healthcare world and I’m glad to be a part of that.”

As a Center of Excellence, Columbia will work with the FUSF and other research institutions to continue expanding the use of focused ultrasound for clinical applications. The designation provides increased opportunities for collaboration, funding, and knowledge-sharing to accelerate the translation of focused ultrasound therapies from laboratory research to patient care.

Lead Photo Caption: The designation reflects the pioneering work led by Elisa Konofagou in advancing  innovative focused ultrasound research.