Lauren Richardson

Lauren Richardson, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). Her research integrates advanced engineering and biological concepts to develop organ-on-chip systems that replicate in utero organs and screen biomarkers from underutilized biological fluids.

Her work focuses on organ-on-chip technology, pregnancy complications, placental biology, and microfluidics. These technologies aim to reduce reliance on animal models, accelerate preclinical drug testing, and model conditions like preterm birth and preeclampsia with sex-specific and racial disparities in mind.

Recent research activity shows a high volume of publications (77 total) centered on fetal membranes, maternal-fetal interface, oxidative stress, inflammation, and trophyblast function, with a notable emphasis on preterm birth and parturition mechanisms.

Active grants include a NICHD R01HD11040003 project (2023-2028) on trimester-specific placental organ-on-chips and a Mike Hogg Fund award (2025) evaluating temperature exposure-induced preterm birth mechanisms.