Find Academic Supervisors

• Tissue Engineering
• Stem Cell Biology
• 3D Cell Culture Technology
• +5 more

Professor Stefan Przyborski is a Deputy Provost in the Vice-Chancellor's Office and a Professor in the Department of Biosciences at Durham University. His research focuses on advanced tissue technologies, particularly 3D cell culture systems and bioengineered tissues. He is best known for co-developing the Alvetex scaffold technology, commercialized through the spinout company Reinnervate Ltd (now part of Reprocell), which revolutionized 3D cell culture for drug testing and tissue engineering. His research group specializes in stem cell biology, tissue engineering, and creating in vitro models of human tissues like skin, intestine, and liver. They investigate how microenvironments influence cell behavior and apply this knowledge to develop tools for regenerative medicine, toxicology, and reducing animal testing. Collaborations span academia, industry, and government sectors, with funding from research councils and industrial partners. Key esteem roles include serving on the Royal Society of Biology Council, UK Research and Innovation panels (BBSRC, UKRI), and international grant review boards. His work bridges bioscience, chemistry, and engineering, emphasizing translational research and commercialization. Professor Przyborski's recent articles focus on neural regeneration in Alzheimer’s models, skin aging mechanisms, gut barrier dysfunction in IBD, and the impact of environmental pollutants on skin health. He supervises multiple PhD and MSc students and has pioneered bioengineered models for studying diseases like systemic sclerosis and melanoma invasion.

• Pharmaceutical Science
• Nanomedicine
• Drug Delivery Systems
• +7 more

Mohammad Najlah is a Professor of Pharmaceutics and Nanomedicine at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), affiliated with the School of Allied Health and Social Care. He leads the Pharmaceutical Research Group within the Medical Technology Research Centre (MTRC). His research focuses on nanomedicine, drug delivery systems, and overcoming chemoresistance in cancer treatment. Najlah holds a PhD from the University of Manchester and has held academic leadership roles at Al-Baath University and ARU, where he contributed to establishing the SuperLabs Complex and new pharmaceutical programs. His expertise includes pharmaceutical nanotechnology, colloidal formulations, and translational research in cancer and skin health. He has secured significant grants, including Innovate UK-funded projects on nanomedicine scaling and liposomal skincare formulations. Najlah is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry and has supervised multiple PhD students to completion. His awards include the Jussara Personelle Award (2019) and the Controlled Release Society's Outstanding Oral Drug Delivery Award (2006). Research interests span nanocarrier design, pulmonary drug delivery, and 3D stereophotogrammetry for skin analysis. He collaborates with industries like Homogenisation Systems Ltd and Detoxpeople Ltd to advance drug delivery technologies.

Vicki MeliView profile

Professor

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Biophysical Chemistry
• +3 more

Dr. Vicki Meli is a Professor and Department Head in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Mount Allison University. Her research focuses on the interface between nanotechnology and biophysical systems, particularly investigating the behavior of gold nanoparticles in biological and synthetic membrane environments. She explores topics such as nanoparticle cytotoxicity, self-assembly at liquid interfaces, and the impact of ligand functionalization on material properties. Her work spans interdisciplinary areas including materials science, toxicology, and enzymology, with notable contributions to understanding nanoparticle interactions with liquid crystals and cellular membranes. Meli has published extensively on gold nanoparticle applications in biomimetic systems and nanomaterial design. Her research emphasizes methodological rigor, as highlighted in her commentary on nanoparticle-assay interference. Meli’s studies often integrate advanced analytical techniques like X-ray reflectivity and GC/MS/MS for nanoparticle characterization. While no awards are explicitly listed, her publications reflect a sustained contribution to nanoscale science and biointerfacial chemistry. Advising and grant details are not provided in the available text, though her role as Department Head suggests active involvement in academic leadership and mentorship.

Liyu ChenView profile

Research Fellow

• Drug Delivery
• Neuroscience
• Nanomedicine
• +4 more

Dr. Liyu Chen is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), University of Queensland. His research focuses on advancing drug delivery systems for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS, with a particular emphasis on overcoming the blood-brain barrier using low-intensity ultrasound, nanoparticles, and targeted therapies. Dr. Chen holds a PhD from the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (2016), where he investigated physiological responses to polymeric materials in nanomedicine. His research interests include nanomedicine, biomedical engineering, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders. He has collaborated extensively on studies involving claudin-5 binders, lipid nanoparticles, and ultrasound-mediated drug delivery, with applications in motor neuron diseases and Alzheimer's therapy. Dr. Chen's work bridges engineering and medicine, aiming to optimize drug delivery systems for enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity. His contributions span preclinical models, in vitro studies, and translational research toward clinical applications.

• Molecular Mechanisms of Inflammation
• Lung Diseases
• Airway Epithelium
• +4 more

Dr. Thomas M. Krunkosky serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences within the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia. His academic credentials include a BS, MS (1988, University of Massachusetts), DVM (1993), and PhD (1999), both from North Carolina State University. Dr. Krunkosky maintains an active research program focused on molecular mechanisms of inflammation and diseases in the lung, particularly examining host-pathogen interactions involving Mycoplasma pneumoniae and airway epithelial responses. Dr. Krunkosky's research interests center on molecular mechanisms of inflammation and lung diseases , with specific expertise in airway epithelium biology , Mycoplasma pneumoniae pathogenesis , and inflammatory responses to respiratory pathogens . His laboratory employs advanced air-liquid interface culture models of differentiated human airway epithelium to investigate bacterial colonization dynamics, host immune responses, and epithelial barrier function during infection. His work bridges veterinary and human medical research, particularly through comparative studies of respiratory diseases. Analysis of Dr. Krunkosky's publication record spanning from 1995 to 2024 reveals consistent research in respiratory pathophysiology with increasing focus on bacterial pathogenesis, particularly Mycoplasma pneumoniae. His work demonstrates methodological evolution from basic epithelial cell studies to sophisticated models examining spatial and temporal aspects of infection. The research spans multiple disciplines including microbiology , molecular biology , and respiratory physiology , with applications in both human and veterinary medicine. Dr. Krunkosky contributes significantly to education as the Course Coordinator for Microscopic Anatomy of Domestic Animals (VARB 5180-5180L; VARB 7180-7180L) and serves as a mentor for the Georgia Veterinary Scholars Program and the CURO Apprentice Program (HONS 4960H). His teaching emphasizes histological understanding of domestic animal systems and provides research opportunities for veterinary and undergraduate students.

David WattsView profile

Professor

• Dental Biomaterials Science
• Orthopaedic Biomaterials
• Polymer Systems
• +6 more

David Watts is a Professor of Dental Biomaterials Science at the University of Manchester's School of Dentistry. He holds adjunct positions at Oregon Health & Science University and the University of Padova. His research focuses on biomaterials for dentistry and orthopaedics, including polymer systems, composites, adhesives, and photopolymerization kinetics. He has pioneered quantitative methods for evaluating biomaterial handling properties and developed novel instrumentation. His work bridges dental materials science with biomechanics, theology, and sustainable practices. Education: BSc, PhD, DSc from the University of Wales and Manchester. Key roles include Head of Research Theme in Adhesive Biomaterials, Editor-in-Chief of Dental Materials , and leadership in international collaborations. Awards include the Humboldt Research Award (2010) and IADR Distinguished Scientist Award (2003). Research emphasizes biomaterial-tissue interfaces, polymerization shrinkage, and material characterization using advanced techniques like X-ray micro-tomography. His lab explores fiber-reinforced biomaterials, electrospun drug delivery systems, and aesthetic properties of materials. Over 70 PhD students have been supervised, contributing to over 500 publications. Grants and collaborations span institutions worldwide, addressing biomaterials for bone regeneration, CAD-CAM applications, and sustainable dental materials. He also contributes to theology-science dialogues through the Faraday Institute and CTNS.

John McKinneyView profile

Professor

• Microbiology
• Microtechnology
• Infectious Diseases
• +3 more

John McKinney is a Full Professor at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), affiliated with the School of Life Sciences (SV) and the Global Health Institute (GHI). His research focuses on microbiology, microtechnology, and bacterial pathogenesis, particularly in understanding mechanisms of antibiotic resistance and bacterial persistence in Mycobacterium tuberculosis . He leads the McKinney Lab, which integrates experimental and technological approaches to study host-microbe interactions and develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Roles: Full Professor, Director of the McKinney Lab, and academic leader in microbiology and infectious diseases. Education: Not explicitly stated in provided text. Research interests include bacterial physiology, single-cell analysis, and the development of microfluidic tools for studying microbial behavior. His work bridges fundamental biology with translational applications in combating tuberculosis and other infectious diseases. Publications span topics like antibiotic tolerance, bacterial morphogenesis, and high-resolution imaging techniques. He has supervised numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, contributing to advancements in microbial pathogenesis and drug discovery. Grants and collaborations focus on tuberculosis research, with projects funded by international agencies. His lab collaborates with institutions worldwide, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to global health challenges.

Idse HeemskerkView profile

Assistant Professor

• Biological Physics
• Stem Cell Biology
• Mammalian Development
• +3 more

Idse Heemskerk is an Assistant Professor of Physics and Cell & Developmental Biology at the University of Michigan. He holds dual appointments in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts and the Medical School's Department of Cell & Developmental Biology. His research focuses on understanding how stem cells self-organize into embryonic structures, integrating quantitative measurements with mathematical models. Education: PhD in Theoretical Physics, University of California, Santa Barbara (2012) MS in Theoretical Physics, Universiteit van Amsterdam (2007) BSc in Computer Science and Physics, Universiteit van Amsterdam (2005–2007) Research Interests: Mechanisms of self-organization in stem cells, signaling dynamics, morphogenesis, and the interplay between physical forces and genetic programs. He employs 2D gastruloids and micropatterning to model human development, with a focus on mesoderm formation and germ layer patterning. Key Contributions: His lab has advanced methods for long-term culture of gastruloids, revealed glycolytic regulation of germ layers, and mapped mechanical forces in embryo models. Recent work emphasizes mathematical modeling of BMP signaling and FGF-driven cell fate decisions. Awards & Recognition: None explicitly listed, but his work has been featured in Nature Methods and Cell Stem Cell . Lab & Collaborations: The Heemskerk Lab is part of the Center for Cell Plasticity and Organ Design. Collaborations include teams at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics and Rice University, focusing on systems biology approaches to embryonic development.

Alexandra S. Piotrowski-DaspitView profile

Assistant Professor

• Nanomedicine
• Gene Therapy
• Polymeric Nanoparticle Delivery
• +3 more

Alexandra S. Piotrowski-Daspit is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan. Her work focuses on developing polymeric nanoparticles for gene and drug delivery systems, particularly targeting genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis and congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Educational Background S.B. in Chemical-Biological Engineering and Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Master’s and Ph.D. in Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University Postdoctoral Fellowship in Biomedical Engineering, Yale University Research Interests Her research integrates nanotechnology and molecular biology to create advanced delivery systems for nucleic acids. Key areas include in utero gene editing, mRNA-based therapies for respiratory diseases, and optimizing nanoparticle surface chemistry for targeted delivery. Her lab, the DYnamic NAnoMEDicines Lab, explores applications in cystic fibrosis correction, fetal therapy, and vaccine development. Article Trends Recent work emphasizes in vivo and in vitro validation of polymeric nanoparticles for delivering mRNA and gene-editing tools. Studies highlight advancements in targeting fetal lungs, correcting CFTR mutations, and enhancing nanoparticle biocompatibility. Lab & Collaborations Her DYnamic NAnoMEDicines Lab develops translational nanomedicines for genetic disorders. Collaborations span materials science, immunology, and pediatric medicine to bridge preclinical and clinical applications.

• Endodontics
• Dental Education
• Antimicrobial Agents
• +5 more

Omer Sheriff is an Associate Professor at the Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health (MOSDOH), part of A.T. Still University. He holds advanced degrees including BDS, MDS, and PhD. His research focuses on dental education innovation, antimicrobial therapies, and inflammation mechanisms in endodontics. Notably, he received a $350,000 grant from Viome in 2025 to advance his research. Education: He completed his dental training with a BDS degree, followed by an MDS in Dentistry and a PhD in Medical Sciences. His academic work bridges clinical practice and educational methodology, particularly in interprofessional collaboration and virtual learning environments. Research Interests: Dr. Sheriff explores cutting-edge areas such as graphene nanoparticles for endodontic disinfection , α-mangostin-based antimicrobial agents , and cytokine dynamics in periapical inflammation . His recent work emphasizes e-learning tools to enhance dental student skills and interprofessional education models for healthcare teams. Professional Contributions: He delivered a guest lecture at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in 2025 and actively participates in initiatives like Give Kids a Smile events. His grants and peer-reviewed publications reflect a commitment to advancing both clinical practice and educational standards in dentistry. Labs/Teams: Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams in biomaterials research and endodontic microbiology, leveraging advanced in vitro models to test novel treatments.

Rasool ErfaniView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Plasma Engineering
• Computational Fluid Dynamics
• Environmental Science
• +3 more

Dr. Rasool Erfani is a Senior Lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), leading the Modelling and Digital Twin theme within the Smart Infrastructure & Industry Research (SIIR) Group. His research focuses on plasma engineering, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and experimental fluid dynamics, with applications in environmental science, healthcare, and resource management. He holds an honorary Associate Professor position at University College London (UCL). Dr. Erfani has secured significant grants, including a £600k NIHR-i4i grant for a vocalisation device for tracheostomised patients and three Innovate UK-KTP grants totaling £550k. These projects address industrial challenges such as leak detection in water systems and SF6-free air quality assessment. Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Manchester, MSc in Applied Fluid Dynamics from The University of Manchester, PGCert in Learning and Teaching (Manchester Met). His research interests span plasma-based technologies for healthcare and environmental applications, renewable energy systems, and advanced flow diagnostics. Notable achievements include the IMechE Andrew Medd Award (2020) and the Institute of Water Innovation Award (2020). Key collaborations: NHS, Severn Trent Water, Motherwell Tank, Clean Air, and Lb Orthopaedics Manchester Ltd. Dr. Erfani supervises PhD projects in water/wastewater treatment and medical device development, supported by funding from international organizations. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary innovation, bridging engineering with healthcare and environmental sustainability.

Nathan HodsonView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Musculoskeletal Physiology
• Skeletal Muscle Protein Metabolism
• mTORC1-Lysosomal-Autophagy Axis
• +5 more

Dr. Nathan Hodson is a Senior Lecturer in Musculoskeletal Physiology at Manchester Metropolitan University , where he investigates skeletal muscle protein metabolism and its regulation through exercise and nutrition. His work spans populations including athletes, individuals with obesity, and those with muscular dystrophy, focusing on non-pharmacological interventions to enhance muscle quality. PhD in Skeletal Muscle Metabolism Postdoctoral Research Fellow at University of Toronto Academic Interests: mTORC1-lysosomal-autophagy axis, protein nutrition in dystrophy His research combines muscle biopsy, MRI, and in vitro models to explore anabolic resistance and autophagy. Recent publications highlight advancements in protein-carbohydrate synergy, sex-based muscle physiology, and autophagy's role in recovery. Scientific accolades include the ASBMB Postdoctoral Award and Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard Award . He supervises PhD students at Manchester Met and collaborates with the University of Toronto, teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate courses such as MSc Clinical Exercise Physiology.

Ali SalifuView profile

Assistant Professor

• Biomaterials
• Tissue Engineering
• Drug Delivery
• +3 more

Ali Salifu is an Assistant Professor of Engineering at Boston College, specializing in biomaterials, tissue engineering, and sustainable technologies. His research focuses on developing targeted drug delivery systems for cancer therapy, advanced 3D scaffolds for tissue regeneration, and low-cost ceramic water filters for communities in West Africa. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Engineering from the University of Surrey and a B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Ghana. Educations: B.S., Biochemistry, University of Ghana, Legon M.S., Biomedical Engineering, University of Surrey Ph.D., Materials Engineering, University of Surrey His research interests span biomaterials for drug delivery and tissue engineering, particularly plant-based scaffolds and ceramic water filtration systems. He collaborates on initiatives like the MS4SSA program to train African educators in water filtration and 3D printing. Previously, he served as an Assistant Research Professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, contributing to pandemic engineering and global health projects.

Antonio Carlos Freitas dos SantosView profile

Academic

• Biofuels
• Bioproducts Process Engineering
• Tissue Engineering
• +3 more

Antonio Carlos Freitas dos Santos is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering at Boston College. His research focuses on developing processes involving cells and proteins for applications ranging from biofuels and bioproducts to tissue engineering and drug development. He is affiliated with the Gaudette Lab, where his current work emphasizes cellular agriculture and tissue engineering for skin injury treatments. Prior to Boston College, he was a postdoctoral researcher at Purdue University's Laboratory of Renewable Resources Engineering, focusing on drug development and biomass liquefaction. Dr. dos Santos holds a Ph.D. and M.S. from Purdue University and a B.S. from Universidade de São Paulo. His research interests span biofuels process engineering, tissue engineering techniques, and drug delivery systems, with a strong emphasis on scaling industrial applications. He actively mentors undergraduate students in bioprocessing and tissue engineering research. His recent publications explore topics including biofuel production from corn stover, hyaluronic acid matrix protein diffusion, and the recycling of microalgal media. His work bridges fundamental science with industrial-scale challenges, addressing issues such as biomass handling, enzymatic hydrolysis optimization, and biomaterials characterization. Dr. dos Santos has collaborated on over 20 peer-reviewed articles since 2018, contributing to advancements in bioprocessing technologies and biomedical applications. His research aligns with Boston College's engineering initiatives in sustainable energy and regenerative medicine.

Melanie EckerView profile

Adjunct Assistant Professor

• Biomaterials
• Bioelectronic Medicine
• Biomedical Polymers
• +5 more

Dr. Melanie Ecker is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of North Texas (UNT), affiliated with Discovery Park. Her research focuses on advanced biomaterials, bioelectronic devices, and tissue engineering. She specializes in shape-memory polymers, hydrogels, and biocompatible materials for medical applications such as neural interfaces, orthopedic implants, and drug delivery systems. Her work integrates material science with biomedical engineering, addressing challenges in implant biocompatibility, flexibility, and durability. Key research areas include: Development of self-softening polymers for minimally invasive neural implants Bioactive glass coatings to enhance implant performance Hydrogel-based models for osteoarthritis and chondrocyte regeneration Sustainable materials like bacterial-retted hemp composites for biomedical use Dr. Ecker’s recent publications emphasize bioelectronic medicine, multifunctional polymers, and translational research bridging biophysics and clinical therapies. Her contributions include innovations in implantable bioelectronics, hydrolytically stable polymers, and 3D-printed biobased materials. Notable achievements include the NSF CAREER award for shape-memory polymer research (2023). She collaborates across disciplines to advance technologies for chronic neural recording, soft tissue integration, and regenerative medicine.