Nehal Abu-Lail

Nehal Abu-Lail is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a research focus on understanding cellular interactions at molecular and mechanical levels. Her work spans bacterial and mammalian cell adhesion, biofilm dynamics, and tissue engineering, often employing atomic force microscopy (AFM) and interdisciplinary collaborations.

• Chemical Engineering Faculty, UTSA
• Research in Biomedical Engineering, Microbiology, and Materials Science
• Key areas: Bacterial Adhesion, Cartilage Tissue Engineering, and Women in Engineering

Her publications highlight advancements in:

• Nanoscale analysis of bacterial surface biopolymers
• Optimization of bioreactors for cartilage regeneration
• Environmental applications of biochar in bacterial transport
• Sex-specific responses in osteoarthritic cells
• Educational initiatives for women in engineering

Her research integrates chemical engineering principles with biomedical and environmental challenges, emphasizing AFM for force quantification and surface characterization. Recent work explores combining mechanical stimulation with biochemical factors to enhance tissue engineering outcomes and combat antibiotic resistance.

She contributes to educational outreach through initiatives like the AIChE K-12 Module and programs addressing financial barriers for engineering students. Her interdisciplinary collaborations reflect a commitment to solving complex biological and societal issues.