When Kevin Maupin ’10 walks into a classroom, he brings with him the kind of experience that seems more like a Netflix science series than an academic resume. 

His journey from psychology student to biomedical researcher has spanned some of the most innovative frontiers in science — from genome editing and liquid biopsy technologies for cancer detection to research with mice sent to the International Space Station.

Now, as assistant professor in the College of Computing, Maupin is ready to channel those experiences into shaping the future of computing in health care and biotechnology. 

“I see computing as the engine behind so many of today’s medical breakthroughs,” Maupin said. “Whether it’s developing AI to map tumors or using liquid biopsies to monitor cancer in real time, we’re at a moment where technology and biology are deeply intertwined.”

Maupin’s expertise is rare and remarkably interdisciplinary. 

After earning a bachelor's degree in psychology, he pivoted into cellular and molecular biology, later completing a doctoral degree in that discipline at the Van Andel Institute Graduate School. There, he explored the role of galectin-3 in bone development and engineered mouse models using a gene-editing technology, CRISPR.

His research expanded into glycosylation markers in cancer, fracture healing in space-based environments and theranostics: a field combining diagnostic imaging with targeted treatment.

“I’ve always seen connections between fields that others might miss,” Maupin said, adding he was diagnosed with ADHD at age 25. “That’s partly thanks to how my mind works. It’s a strength in research and in the classroom. It helps me engage students in unconventional ways.”

As a scientific advisor at BAMF Health, Maupin helped develop advanced diagnostic tools using PET/CT and PET/MRI and oversaw projects that leveraged AI to tailor patient treatment plans.

“Dr. Maupin brings a wealth of expertise in biomedical innovation and translational research to our college,” said Marouane Kessentini, dean of the College of Computing. “His arrival strengthens our commitment to interdisciplinary education and research that directly impacts lives. 

“Given our partnership with BAMF Health, his presence also deepens our regional collaborations and creates powerful new opportunities for our students and faculty to engage in cutting-edge precision medicine.”

At Grand Valley, Maupin will mentor the next generation of researchers and innovators. He plans to build bridges between students and the region’s health care and biotech industries through internships, research projects and community partnerships.

He’s particularly passionate about mentoring students who may not see themselves as traditional scientists, but have talents lie in blending disciplines, just as his own career has shown.

“I want students to understand that careers at the intersection of computing and medicine are possible,” he said. “They’re urgent and needed. Whether you’re writing code, analyzing patient data, or designing AI models, there’s space for you to make a real-world impact.”

Read this article on GV Forum.