Faculty Directory

Dr. Kan Cao is a Professor of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics at the University of Maryland, College Park. Her research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of human aging and age-related diseases, with particular interests in premature aging disorders, neurodegeneration, vascular aging, and skin and hair aging. Her work also explores translational approaches to promote healthy aging.

Dr. Cao received her B.Sc. in Biology from Nanjing University and her Ph.D. in Biology from Johns Hopkins University, followed by postdoctoral training in genomics at the National Institutes of Health.

Her research and innovation have earned several prestigious honors, including the Ellison Medical Foundation New Scholar in Aging Award and the University of Maryland Board of Visitors Junior Faculty Award. She also received the Norma M. Allewell Prize in Entrepreneurship and is a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors.