Joseph J. Pancrazio

Joseph J. Pancrazio is a Professor of Bioengineering and Vice President for Research at the University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas). He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois and M.S./Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Virginia. His career includes roles at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Georgetown University, and George Mason University, where he founded the Department of Bioengineering. He leads the Neuronal Networks and Interfaces Laboratory, focusing on neural interface technologies, microelectrode arrays, and biomaterials for chronic neural recording. His research addresses challenges in implantable device biocompatibility, neuroprosthetics, and in vitro drug screening for pain management.

Education:

• PhD, Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 1990
• MS, Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 1988
• BS, Electrical Engineering, University of Illinois, 1984

Research Interests:

• Neural interface design and optimization
• Chronic implant biocompatibility
• Biomaterials for neuroprosthetics
• In vitro pharmacological screening using MEAs
• Neuroinflammatory responses to implants

Lab Activities: The Neuronal Networks and Interfaces Laboratory develops novel microelectrode arrays and biomaterials for neural recording/stimulation. Ongoing projects include:

• Ruthenium oxide/silicon carbide coatings for enhanced electrode performance
• Softening polymers to reduce tissue-device mechanical mismatch
• In vitro models of chronic pain using human iPSC-derived sensory neurons

Awards: Elected Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE, 2011).