Eric M Darling

Eric M. Darling is an Associate Professor of Medical Science, Engineering, and Orthopaedics at Brown University, affiliated with the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the Center for Biomedical Engineering. His research focuses on mechanobiology, stem cell mechanics, and regenerative medicine, with a particular emphasis on understanding how mechanical properties of cells influence their behavior and therapeutic potential. He earned his B.S. from Harvey Mudd College and his Ph.D. in Bioengineering from Rice University, followed by postdoctoral training at Duke University.

• Education: B.S. in Engineering (Harvey Mudd College, 2000), Ph.D. in Bioengineering (Rice University, 2005), Postdoc (Duke University, 2004-2009).

His research spans cell mechanics, stem cell enrichment, and biomaterials, leveraging technologies like atomic force microscopy (AFM) and hyper-compliant microparticles. Key projects include studying cellular heterogeneity, mechanophenotyping, and applications in cartilage regeneration and drug delivery.

Recent work includes developing methods for high-throughput cell analysis and creating cell-mimicking microparticles for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. His lab has been funded by NIH and NSF grants, including a focus on measuring microenvironmental forces during tissue formation (NSF CMMI 2054193).

• Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2013), Manning Assistant Professor (2014), Acta Biomaterialia Reviewer Excellence (2019).