Biophysical Society Bulletin | December 2025

Biophysicist in Profile

Recently, her work has taken an intriguing new direction. She explains, “More recently, we are investigating how interac tions with quantum materials affect the actin cytoskeleton and cell mechanics, in close collaboration with team members in the UCF Partnership for Research and Education in Materi als Center supported by NSF [National Science Foundation], in partnership with UW [University of Washington]. We are very excited to be a part of the team!” This expansion into quantum materials represents the kind of interdisciplinary thinking that Kang finds most compelling about her field. “My favorite thing about biophysics is its multi-disciplinary nature, providing opportunities for collab orations with scientists from various other fields and disci plines,” she says. While Kang’s research accomplishments are fulfilling, she lights up most when discussing her students. “The most rewarding aspect of my work is helping my students succeed through mentoring,” she says. “It is incredible to see them grow as independent researchers and accomplish their goals in their careers, as well as life.” Her pride in her students’ achievements is evident: “I am very proud to say that my current and former graduate and undergraduate students have won many awards, prestigious fellowships, and scholarships. I am so grateful to my stu dents for bringing positive energy and building a collaborative environment.” This commitment to education extends beyond her own lab. Kang envisions expanding her contributions to include broader educational initiatives. “I also hope to contribute to biophysics education and enhance awareness of biophysics through professional mentoring and curriculum development,” she notes, looking toward the future of the field itself with optimism. “In the future, I see biophysics playing even more important roles in identifying fundamental mechanisms of complex biological systems for human health and diseases.” Kang has found valuable support and connection through the Biophysical Society. “Attending the Annual Meeting allows me to stay connected with other biophysicists in the field and to be informed about frontier biophysics research,” she explains. “BPS provides great career resources and networking oppor tunities for everyone—in particular, for students and early- career scientists.” She has been particularly active in promoting Biophysics Week, serving as a biophysics seminar coordinator and orga nizing affiliate events at UCF. The “2025 UCF Biophysics Day” was featured in the BPS Bulletin this past May. She also serves on the Membership Committee, finding the role fulfilling. “Being a member of the Biophysical Society has helped me

Kang and members of her lab building bonds by spending time together outside the lab.

build a professional network that has created collaboration opportunities,” she notes. Outside the lab, Kang maintains connections to her earlier passion and cultivates practices that keep her grounded. “In my spare time, I enjoy playing piano, practicing yoga and meditation, and spending time with my husband and teenage son,” she says. “They help me expand my perceptions and stay grounded in life.” For young researchers just beginning their careers in bio physics, Kang offers hard-won wisdom rooted in her own experience of starting later than most and navigating career transitions. “My advice to young researchers in biophysics is to keep their patience and perseverance when facing adversi ty and/or doubting about themselves,” she says. “I encourage them to have confidence in their capability to pursue careers in biophysics.” She emphasizes the importance of connection and commu nication: “Networking and communications are key elements. So, please join BPS and be actively engaged in various com munity activities!” Kang’s career demonstrates that scientific paths need not be linear, that passions from one stage of life can enrich later pursuits, and that the most rewarding aspects of science often lie not just in discoveries made, but in the communities built and the students mentored along the way. From piano competitions in South Korea to pioneering research at the in tersection of biophysics and quantum materials in Florida, her journey embodies the interdisciplinary spirit and collaborative ethos that define modern biophysics.

December 2025

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