Professor Leo Chou awarded the 2026 McCharles Prize for Early Career Research Distinction

Professor Leo Chou of the Institute of Biomedical Engineering has been named the recipient of the 2026 McCharles Prize for Early Career Research Distinction, recognizing his rapid emergence as one of the most original and impactful young researchers in DNA nanotechnology, immune engineering, and biomaterials science.

Since joining the University of Toronto in 2019, Chou has established a leading research program focused on developing biomaterials that interface with living systems with molecular precision.

His work is grounded in the idea that biological responses, from receptor signaling to immune activation and tissue-level behavior, are shaped not only by biochemical identity, but also by the geometric and physical features of molecular cues, including spatial organization, valency, mechanics, and temporal presentation. His laboratory engineers programmable biomaterials to precisely control these features and, in turn, direct cell signaling and fate.

Among his standout contributions is origamiFISH, a single‑molecule visualization method for DNA nanostructures that has transformed how researchers study biodistribution and cellular uptake of DNA‑based therapeutics. Published in Nature Nanotechnology, the technique addresses long‑standing limitations in tracking DNA nanomaterials inside tissues and has been widely recognized as a field‑shaping advance.

Chou’s laboratory has also developed virus‑inspired DNA delivery systems, vaccines, and hydrogel‑based artificial matrices that preserve patient‑derived tissues ex vivo. Together, these innovations establish foundational platforms now being translated toward next-generation vaccines, cancer immunotherapies, and personalized drug screening.

His research excellence is reflected in over $6.3 million in competitive funding, publications in top journals, including Nature Nanotechnology, JACS, ACS Nano, and Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews. He is also the recipient of multiple prestigious honours such as the Ontario Early Researcher Award, BMES Rising Star Faculty Award, and Connaught New Researcher Award.

Prof. Chou is also an outstanding mentor. Since 2019, he has trained more than 22 undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom have earned national awards including Vanier Scholarships and have gone on to positions in academia and industry. He also contributes extensively to curriculum development, program leadership, and service across U of T Engineering and the broader research community.

“I’m honoured to receive the McCharles Prize and grateful for the Faculty’s recognition and support of our research program,” says Chou. “I would also like to recognize the outstanding students who are at the core of our work.”