Shirley Tang

Shirley Tang is a Professor and Associate Dean of Science (Research) at the University of Waterloo's Faculty of Science. She leads the Tang Nanotechnology Lab, equipped with advanced nanocarbon synthesis tools and a biosafety II cell culture facility for studying nanomaterial-biosystem interactions. Her research bridges nanotechnology with biomedical applications, including biosensors, tissue engineering, and nanomaterial safety.

Education:

• 1999, PhD in Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
• 1993, BSc in Chemistry, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China

Research Focus: Professor Tang's work spans nanomaterials, nanobioelectronics, and biomedical devices. Key areas include carbon nanotube biosensors for disease detection, 3D bioprinting of tissue-mimicking materials, AI-assisted materials development, and environmental impact studies of engineered nanomaterials. Her lab actively develops nano-bio hybrids for therapeutic applications and diagnostic tools.

Recent Publications: Her 2022 publications demonstrate strong emphasis on translational healthcare solutions, including wearable biochemical sensors, machine learning-enhanced biosensors for cardiac diagnostics, and advanced 3D bioprinting techniques for creating biomimetic tissues and tumor models.

Awards and Honors:

• Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women (2022)
• Research Leaders Award, Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (2021, 2022)
• Mid-Career Award for Women in Nanosciences, NanoOntario (2018)
• Stars in Global Health Award, Grand Challenges Canada (2012)
• CFI Leader’s Opportunity Award (2008)

Leadership: She directs a cutting-edge nanotechnology lab focusing on nano-bio interface studies and holds editorial roles for International Journal of Bioprinting and Exploration of BioMat-X. Her professional memberships include the Materials Research Society and Canadian Biomaterials Society.