Professor Jasmine Foo receives Distinguished McKnight University Professorship
MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (4/10/2024) – Northrop Professor Jasmine Foo now has another named professorship to add to her title – Distinguished McKnight University Professor. Foo is recognized for her outstanding mathematical biology research and contributions to the mathematics community.
Foo joined the School of Mathematics in 2011, following her PhD at Brown University and postdoctoral appointment at Harvard University. Her research is focused on developing mathematical theories for understanding evolution and cancer. She is also interested in applying probabilistic evolutionary models to study the emergence of drug resistance and develop novel therapeutic strategies in oncology. This aspect of her research is a key component in the work of the recently launched Therapy Modeling & Design Center (TMDC). Founded by Foo and fellow UMN faculty members Kevin Leder and David Odde, TMDC is a highly interdisciplinary initiative that leverages mechanistic mathematical modeling and engineering principles to optimize the therapy development process.
Foo has been previously recognized with the NSF CAREER Award in 2014, the McKnight Land Grant Professorship in 2013, and the Northrop Professorship in 2023. She also serves as the Assistant Head of the School of Mathematics, providing continued leadership and guidance to the UMN mathematics community.
Head of the School of Mathematics Benjamin Brubaker writes: “Professor Foo has established an impressive record of creative scholarship, a stellar reputation at the frontier of a highly interdisciplinary and impactful field of mathematical biology, a demonstrated gift for teaching and mentoring, and a commitment to service at all levels of university life that is truly extraordinary.”
The Distinguished McKnight University Professorship program recognizes outstanding faculty members who have recently achieved full professor status. Recipients hold the title “Distinguished McKnight University Professor” for as long as they remain employed at the University of Minnesota.