Ben Maoz

Prof. Ben Maoz is a Professor at the Department of Bio-Medical Engineering, The Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University. He directs the MaozLab, which pioneers interdisciplinary research in neuroengineering, microphysiological systems, and nanoscale therapeutic delivery. His lab integrates engineering principles with neuroscience to model human diseases and develop translational technologies.

Research Focus

Prof. Maoz's research spans:

• Organ-on-Chip Platforms: Developing modular microfluidic systems (e.g., neurovascular units, PNS-CNS models) for disease modeling and drug screening.
• Nanoneuroengineering: Designing brain-targeted nanocarriers (liposomes, dendriplexes) for siRNA and antibody delivery in neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's.
• Medical Devices: Creating implantable sensors, nanogenerators for sensory restoration, and tools for traumatic brain injury analysis.
• Cellular Mechanobiology: Investigating biomechanical forces in tissues using magnetoresponsive hydrogels and 3D cultures.

Publication Trends

His recent work (2023-2025) emphasizes:

• Advanced drug delivery systems for neurological applications (e.g., siRNA to neurons, alpha-synuclein-targeting antibodies).
• Innovative organ-on-chip platforms for studying cancer metastasis, viral entry, and neuro-immune interactions.
• Biomaterials and nanotechnologies addressing sensory restoration, cellular contractility, and super-resolution imaging.

Laboratory & Collaborations

The MaozLab employs microfabrication, molecular biology, and in vitro modeling to tackle challenges in brain health, with collaborations spanning oncology, virology, and gastroenterology.