Melanie Ecker

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.