Postdoc Spotlight: Katie Kuo's Work in Computation

Biophysics Aims to Advance Discovery

Georgia Tech postdoctoral scholar Katie Kuo is using her expertise in chemistry and computational biophysics to transform the future of drug discovery and therapeutic development. Fueled by a passion for understanding how protein dynamics influence biological function, Kuo uses her research to bridge experimental and computational methods in ways that are both innovative and impactful.

Blending Chemistry, Biophysics, and Machine Learning

Kuo’s scientific journey reflects a deep commitment to interdisciplinary research. Kuo gained hands-on experience in drug development at Emory University, where she worked on developmental drug techniques, including in vitro screening and drug interaction optimization for novel CXCR4 antagonists.

Since Kuo was already living in Atlanta, she was familiar with the city’s academic ecosystem. She then chose to pursue her Ph.D. at Georgia Tech because she was drawn to the Institute’s strong infrastructure and support of a culture of scientific innovation. In the Department of Physics, Kuo now studies the applications of machine learning to protein targets for drug discovery.

“My fundamental interests lie in protein structure and function,” said Kuo. “I wanted to impact how we discover and develop novel therapeutics.” These interests influenced her decision to work in computational biophysics for her postdoc.

Life as a Postdoc and Beyond the Lab

Mornings and afternoons are filled with meetings alongside research collaborators and students. In between, Kuo dedicates time to grant writing and analyzing her biophysical simulations. She also spends a good amount of time reading literature.

When she’s not immersed in simulations or research planning, Dr. Kuo enjoys downtime with her two dogs and watching NBA basketball. She also loves exploring Atlanta’s food scene. Two of her current favorite restaurants are The Dumpling Factory and Brown Bag Seafood. She loves visiting the Georgia Aquarium as well.

Celebrating Recognition

In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Kuo was recently honored with Georgia Tech’s Research Administration & Support – Spotlight Awards. The award highlights her commitment to scientific excellence, collaborative leadership, and forward-thinking research. Her work continues to inspire new pathways in therapeutic development and reflects the kind of innovation that defines Georgia Tech’s postdoctoral community. To learn more about the recipients of the 2025 Research Administration & Support Spotlight Awards, read the story here.

Media

Postdoc Spotlight: Katie Kuo