Ronald Kumon

Associate Professor of Physics

Dr. Kumon’s research interests are broadly themed around the use of ultrasound for materials characterization, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic applications. In the biomedical arena, he has investigated high-frequency ultrasound for ex vivo characterization of breast cancer and endoscopic ultrasound for improved in vivo diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. He has also studied the mechanisms and bioeffects of sonoporation, the therapeutic use of ultrasound and microbubbles to enhance the delivery of drugs to cells, via fluorescence and high-speed brightfield microscopy.  In the area of therapeutic ultrasound, Dr. Kumon has investigated the effects of high-intensity focused ultrasound on cardiac electrophysiology using optical and infrared imaging. Most recently, he has been working on projects involving the synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles and their application in magnetic fluid hyperthermia for cancer treatment.

Dr. Kumon believes that building a student’s physical intuition and independent learning skills are the most valuable services that a faculty member can provide. To accomplish these goals, he strives to clearly communicate fundamental physical concepts along with the analytical and mathematical skills needed to solve practical problems associated with those concepts. To better actively engage students, he introduces practical examples into his discussions and uses guided questioning to lead students to solve their own problems.

Finally, he performs assessment to measure learning and further improve his teaching. Outside of the classroom, Dr. Kumon works to mentor students and promote physics through outreach to on-campus and off-campus communities.