As Dr. John S. Wilson reflects on his journey to EnMed, he finds inspiration in the wonders of the natural world with his favorite quote: “The more I study nature, the more I stand amazed at the work of the Creator,” citing the sentiment of Louis Pasteur in his pursuit of knowledge at the intersection of medicine and engineering. Thus, he began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Baylor University in 2003.
Afterward, Dr. Wilson pursued a career in medicine and obtained his MD from UT Southwestern in 2007. Despite the challenge of dual disciplines, he received a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering from Yale University in 2015. His doctoral research focused primarily on cardiovascular soft tissue mechanics, highlighting his dedication to understanding the human cardiovascular system.
After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Wilson pursued a research fellowship at Emory University, contributing significantly to developing aortic DENSE MRI—an innovative imaging technique designed to quantify patient-specific aortic strain fields. This groundbreaking work aimed at enhancing the precision of surgical interventions for aortic aneurysms and dissections emphasized Dr. Wilson’s commitment to advancing medical technologies.
While at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Pauley Heart Center, Dr. Wilson led the Cardiovascular Mechanics & Imaging Lab and contributed 23 peer-reviewed journal articles and 33 conference abstracts in cardiology, radiology, and biomedical engineering. His dedication to research and academic excellence has impacted these fields, solidifying his position as a thought leader.
In January 2022, Dr. Wilson took on a new role as an instructional associate professor at EnMed. In this capacity, he co-directs the cardiovascular pre-clerkship course, imparts knowledge through ad hoc lectures in medicine and engineering, and actively participates in various committees. Dr. Wilson is dedicated to enhancing EnMed’s educational experience through curricular blending, development, admissions, and approval of Innovation Immersion Experiences (IIEs) to train future Physicianeers.
Beyond the lecture halls and research laboratories, Dr. Wilson is a family man. He spends his free time with his wife, Laura, and their two children, Noelle and Luke. Dr. Wilson connects his interests to his personal life by involving his family on medical missions, having visited multiple countries with them. His passion for space medicine and technology is apparent through his previous term at NASA Johnson Space Center, where he contributed to Biomedical Hardware Development and Human Adaptations & Countermeasures Offices. As a long-time sci-fi enthusiast, Dr. Wilson enjoys exploring thought-provoking stories in books or movies.
Dr. John S. Wilson’s journey highlights the balanced synergy of medicine and engineering at EnMed. His groundbreaking research projects and transformative experiences reflect a genuine commitment to advancing healthcare and promoting a future for Physicianeers.