Yu Shin Kim, M.S., Ph.D., has been appointed professor in the Department of Endodontics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry.
Kim is internationally recognized for groundbreaking research in chronic pain mechanisms and for developing innovative, minimally-invasive imaging techniques for primary sensory neurons in vivo. These advances have led to significant progress in the study of temporomandibular joint disorder, tooth pain, headache, migraine and craniofacial nerve injury, chronic pain and itch, and ultimately somatosensory research. His work has garnered numerous awards and honors and is widely published in leading journals such as Neuron, Science Immunology, Nature Communications, PNAS, Pain, Science Signaling, Brain Stimulation, Journal of Headache and Pain, Journal of Neuroscience, and Journal of Dental Research.
He earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Kangwon National University in South Korea and completed a doctorate in neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in 2010 by study of learning and memory mechanisms, followed by postdoctoral training focused on somatosensory research.
“I am excited to join UAB and continue my work exploring the mechanisms of chronic pain and chronic itch through advanced imaging of sensory neurons and other cell types in periphery and central system which related to somatosensory signaling pathways. The collaborative environment here at UAB will allow my team to continue pushing the boundaries of neuroscience and developing new approaches to understanding and treating pain and itch,” Kim said.
Kim’s laboratory has introduced advanced voltage imaging tools and in vivo imaging systems for freely moving animals, enabling new insights into neural and non-neural interactions. These techniques have transformed approaches to studying sensory neuron function and pain and itch mechanisms.
“Dr. Kim brings exceptional expertise and innovation to our department and school,” said Ashraf F. Fouad, D.D.S., M.S., professor and chair of endodontics. “His pioneering research in sensory neuron imaging and pain and itch mechanisms will open new avenues for discovery and strengthen our commitment to advancing oral health.”
Kim is joined by several team members, including senior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scholars.
“Dr. Kim’s appointment reflects UAB’s commitment to advancing scientific discovery and innovation in oral health,” said Amjad Javed, Ph.D., associate dean for research. “His expertise in pain mechanisms and imaging technology will strengthen our research enterprise and foster new collaborations with investigators and clinicians across the UAB campus. We look forward to the contributions Dr. Kim and his team will make to our school and the broader scientific community.”