Jonathan Zuidema

Jonathan Zuidema, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Kentucky, part of the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. His research focuses on engineering multiscale biomaterials to enhance neuromuscular connectivity, repair mechanisms, and drug delivery systems. Prior roles include a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Individual Fellowship (2022–2024) at the Mario Negri Institute and postdoctoral research at the University of California San Diego.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2014)
• B.S. in Biomedical Engineering, Michigan Technological University (2010)

Research Interests:

• Multiscale Biomaterials
• Neuro-muscular Connectivity and Repair
• Mechanics and Characterization of Biomaterials
• Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine
• Digital Light Projection 3D-Printing
• Drug Delivery

Publications reflect expertise in biomaterials for neural repair, nanoparticle drug delivery, and advanced fabrication techniques. Recent work emphasizes targeted therapies for traumatic brain injury and cancer, leveraging porous silicon nanoparticles and hybrid biomaterial systems.

Awards:

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Individual Fellow (2022–2024)

Grants and Lab Activities: Directs a research lab developing biomaterials for neuromuscular interfaces. Collaborates on projects involving tissue engineering and nanomedicine. Active in community outreach through the Pigman College of Engineering.

Labs/Teams: Research Lab in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, focused on biomaterials fabrication and biomedical applications.