Jacob Hodge, M.D., Ph.D.

Professional Background

I was born and raised in Shawnee, KS (a suburb of Kansas City metro) and attended Kansas State University for my undergraduate studies. I went on to obtain dual bachelor's degrees in Biology and Biochemistry, along with a minor in Chemistry. During my undergraduate training, I explored the medical field through physician shadowing and volunteering at local clinics. I found myself increasingly drawn to the “how” and “why” behind disease processes, which led me to engage in biomedical research. My early projects focused on the molecular biology of specific cancer subtypes and the development of targeted immunotherapies. These experiences ultimately motivated me to pursue a Master’s in Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics at Kansas State University, further solidifying my research interests.

After completing my studies at Kansas State, I took a year of research at the University of Kansas Medical Center in the lab of Dr. Clay Quint, a vascular surgeon-scientist. Here I was exposed to the new and fascinating area of research of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine. We worked on the pre-clinical development of creating tissue engineered vascular grafts that we were able to successfully implant into porcine models. It was during this time I recognized that the field of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine was where I wanted to pursue research for my career.

The following year I chose to apply to and pursue my MD/PhD training at the University of Kansas Medical Center. As my graduate training approached, I transitioned into the labs of Dr. A.J. Mellott and Dr. Jenny Robinson, who would serve as my co-mentors for my PhD training. With Dr. Mellott’s expertise in stem cells and Dr. Robinson’s expertise in biomaterials, I was able to cultivate a project of my own and lean on them throughout my journey. I focused on utilizing tissue engineering and stem cell technologies to develop a tissue-mimetic system, which allowed for us to better understand intrinsic regenerative physiology in the body. Subsequently, utilizing stem cells we worked towards developing targeted regenerative therapies for soft tissue and wound tissue applications.

With the support of my mentors, I had a number of amazing opportunities to travel internationally and showcase our research, including two world congressional research conferences, and many others. My research culminated in a number of publications, patents, and awards for which I owe to the support of those around me. I am excited to see how these projects continue to grow to this day as a biotech company, led by my mentor Dr. Mellott.

I happy to say that I matched into Internal Medicine for residency here at KU Medical Center, where I plan to continue my research and clinical pursuits of developing the next generation of therapies for patients.

Outside of the hospital and research lab, I can be found spending time with my wife, Nichole, and our family and friends. We enjoy cooking, traveling, and going to sporting games together – especially cheering on the Chiefs, Royals, and Wildcats! I also personally enjoy wood-working, reading, and trying local breweries in my spare time.

Thesis: Tailoring Regenerative Therapies to Enhance Wound Healing Outcomes.

Mentors:  Jennifer Robinson, Ph.D. and A.J. Mellott, Ph.D.

Graduate Department: Bioengineering -  Biomaterials & Tissue Engineering

Residency Training: Internal Medicine