Accolades: Scientist, Callier Center Leaders Receive Recognition

Dr. Zihao Ou, assistant professor of physics at The University of Texas at Dallas, has been named to MIT Technology Review’s 35 Innovators Under 35 list for 2025 for his groundbreaking research that could revolutionize the optical imaging of living systems.

Each year since 1999, the publication has recognized early-career individuals from around the globe whose work has the potential to make a significant impact in fields such as computing, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and materials science. This year’s recipients were chosen by subject-matter experts and the publication’s newsroom staff from among 420 nominees from 40 countries.

Combining his expertise in materials physics, nanotechnology and biology, Ou, who was recognized in the materials science category in the publication’s Sept. 8 announcement, has pioneered techniques to extend the capabilities of high-resolution dynamic imaging.

While medical imaging technologies such as X-rays and ultrasound provide a noninvasive window into the body’s interior, optical equipment is not directly used to study live humans or animals because light cannot go through living tissue. In an article published last year in Science, Ou and his research group reported that they safely made the skin of live mice reversibly transparent by applying a solution containing a common yellow food coloring. He and his team published related work more recently in MRS Communications and the Journal of Visualized Experiments.

By making skin and muscle tissue transparent, Ou’s innovation will allow researchers to examine in more detail the dynamics of internal organs in living systems.

“This recognition reflects the incredible support from my mentors, collaborators and students who share the vision of making biology more transparent — literally,” Ou said. “Our work on noninvasive imaging by modulating tissue optics aims to open new frontiers in biomedical research and diagnostics. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a future where we can see deeper, understand better and innovate responsibly.”

Ou joined the physics faculty in the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics in 2024.

“We are very proud of Professor Ou and all his accomplishments. This recognition is a testament to the transformative impact of his contributions so far,” said Dr. G. Andrés Cisneros, professor and department head of physics. “His experience and cutting-edge research program provide a fertile ground for UTD students in the physics department to build on this technology and to continue learning and innovating at the interface between biophysics and materials science.”

American Academy of Audiology Honors Callier Leaders

Two faculty members from The University of Texas at Dallas have been recognized as Legacy Distinguished Fellows of the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) for their years of service to the organization and the field.

Angela Shoup BS’89, MS’92, PhD’94, who leads the Callier Center for Communication Disorders, and Jackie Clark MS’87, PhD’95, clinical professor of speech, language, and hearing, both in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences (BBS), are among 31 initial Legacy Fellows named in August by the AAA, the world’s largest professional audiology organization.

Honorees are being celebrated not only for exceptional careers, but also for their lifelong commitments to advancing their profession through leadership, research, education and clinical excellence. The honor is named for former BBS faculty member Dr. James Jerger, considered the AAA’s founding father.

Shoup, the Ludwig A. Michael, MD Callier Center Executive Director, served as AAA president from 2020 to 2021. She expressed her gratitude for the recognition, adding that she remains committed to advancing the profession for the individuals and families served and in support of the next generation of audiologists.

“It is a profound honor to be recognized as a Legacy Distinguished Fellow in the James F. Jerger Program of Distinction,” she said. “Dr. Jerger’s contributions to audiology have shaped the very foundation of our field, and to be associated with his legacy through this distinction is both humbling and deeply meaningful.”

Clark was the AAA’s president from 2017 to 2018. She said she feels especially privileged to receive the honor named in tribute to her friend and mentor.

“Dr. James Jerger was committed to an unwavering passion for the profession of audiology,” she said. “I believe that Dr. Jerger has called on each of us to maintain a passion for the profession of audiology while we seek progressive ideas to serve those individuals who depend upon our professional expertise.”

Accolades is an occasional News Center feature that highlights recent accomplishments of The University of Texas at Dallas faculty, students and staff. To submit items for consideration, contact your school’s communications manager.