Jia Guo, Ph.D.
Meet the Researcher
Guo received his doctorate in biomedical engineering from Columbia University, where he is now an assistant professor of neurobiology (in psychiatry) and biomedical engineering. His research integrates advanced MRI, spectroscopy, and deep learning to develop translational imaging biomarkers for neurological and sensory disorders. He leads interdisciplinary collaborations bridging neuroimaging and otology to create precision diagnostic tools such as microneedle-enhanced MRI for inner ear diseases. Guo’s 2026 Emerging Research Grant is generously funded by Karen I. Coley.
Ménière’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness. These symptoms are thought to arise from endolymphatic hydrops (EH)—a buildup of fluid in the inner ear. Current MRI methods can visualize EH but are limited by long wait times, high contrast doses, and inconsistent image quality.
This project introduces a new microneedle-based technique that delivers MRI contrast agents directly into the cochlea through a minimally invasive injection. By bypassing systemic delivery, this method allows faster, more reliable imaging with smaller doses of contrast. The project also integrates advanced 3D image segmentation powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically and accurately measure EH. Through safety testing in animal models and development of an automated 3D segmentation pipeline, this research will establish a foundation for clinical translation. The ultimate aim is to create a precise, safe, and efficient imaging approach for early diagnosis and monitoring of Meniere’s disease, improving treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
This project arose from ongoing collaborations between biomedical engineers and otolaryngologists at Columbia University exploring microneedle-based access to the inner ear. Earlier work on safe, precise perforation of the round window membrane and intracochlear drug delivery inspired the idea that the same minimally invasive technology could revolutionize MRI contrast administration. Combining this technique with expertise in high-field MRI and AI-driven image analysis led to a new hypothesis: that direct, controlled contrast delivery could achieve superior imaging of EH while minimizing dosage and wait time.
My path toward a scientific career began with a fascination for how imaging reveals hidden biological processes. Early exposure to MRI technology during graduate training—seeing invisible molecular and structural changes rendered visible by magnetic resonance—cemented my passion for translational imaging science. This motivation continues to drive my research, which aims to bridge physics, engineering, and medicine to improve diagnostics and therapies for neurological and sensory disorders.
Through clinical collaborations, I have interacted with patients suffering from hearing and balance disorders. Witnessing their struggle with uncertainty—especially the lack of precise diagnostic tools— deeply influenced my commitment to developing imaging biomarkers for otologic diseases. This project represents a tangible effort to translate engineering advances into real clinical benefit for these patients.
A highlight of my career so far was observing, for the first time, high-resolution MRI images of the cochlea immediately after intracochlear microneedle injection—capturing unprecedented detail of fluid spaces that were previously indistinguishable. That moment confirmed both the technical feasibility and the clinical potential of this approach.
I trained as both an engineer and a neuroscientist, bridging two traditionally separate disciplines. This dual background enables me to design imaging tools with a deep understanding of both physical mechanisms and biological context. If I were not a researcher, I would likely have pursued industrial design or architecture—fields that also balance creativity and precision. Both share parallels with scientific research, where design thinking and structural problem-solving are central.
To relax, I enjoy hiking and nature photography. Observing natural patterns and structures often inspires my research—reminding me how systems evolve for efficiency and balance, much like the biological mechanisms I study.
In five years, I envision expanding this project to include human pilot studies, validating microneedle-enhanced MRI as a new diagnostic standard. In 10 years, I aim to establish a comprehensive translational program integrating MRI, AI, and microdevice engineering to map and treat sensory disorders across hearing and balance systems.
The Research
Jia Guo, Ph.D. | Columbia University
Enhanced cochlear endolymphatic hydrops imaging for Ménière’s disease with intracochlear MRI contrast delivery via microneedle
Ménière’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness. These symptoms are thought to arise from endolymphatic hydrops (EH)—a buildup of fluid in the inner ear. Current MRI methods can visualize EH but are limited by long wait times, high contrast doses, and inconsistent image quality. This project introduces a new microneedle-based technique that delivers MRI contrast agents directly into the cochlea through a minimally invasive injection. By bypassing systemic delivery, this method allows faster, more reliable imaging with smaller doses of contrast.
The project also integrates advanced 3D image segmentation powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically and accurately measure EH. Through safety testing in animal models and development of an automated 3D segmentation pipeline, this research will establish a foundation for clinical translation. The ultimate aim is to create a precise, safe, and efficient imaging approach for early diagnosis and monitoring of Meniere’s disease, improving treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
Long-term goal: The long-term vision is to develop a clinically translatable system for direct intracochlear contrast- enhanced MRI to improve the diagnosis and treatment of Ménière’s disease. Once validated in preclinical studies, this microneedle technology will be adapted for human use through Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) fabrication and regulatory approval (IDE/IND).
Future clinical steps include:
Refined imaging for early diagnosis: Integrate the microneedle-based approach with routine MRI workflows to enable earlier, more accurate detection of endolymphatic hydrops.
Translation to clinical surgery: Develop ergonomic delivery devices for otologic surgery and train clinicians in their use.
First-in-human studies: Conduct safety and efficacy trials to confirm diagnostic accuracy and patient tolerability.
Widespread clinical adoption: Establish standardized imaging and surgical protocols for use in hospitals and clinics worldwide.
By overcoming the limitations of current diagnostic methods, this project aims to transform how Ménière’s disease and related hearing disorders are detected and managed, ultimately enabling personalized, preventive interventions that preserve hearing and balance function.
Generously funded by Karen I. Coley