Randolph Ashton

Randolph Ashton is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison College of Engineering. He directs the Stem Cell Bioprocessing and Regenerative Biomaterials Laboratory, where his team engineers novel materials and methodologies for lineage-specific differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells. His interdisciplinary research bridges biomaterials science, stem cell biology, and tissue engineering to develop regenerative therapeutic strategies.

His educational background includes:

• PhD (2007) from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
• BS (2002) from Hampton University

Ashton's research focuses on neural and vascular tissue engineering, with specialization in regenerative therapies for the central nervous system. His laboratory employs microfabrication, molecular biology, recombinant protein engineering, and automated live-cell imaging to investigate cellular microenvironmental factors regulating stem cell fate. Current work emphasizes developing high-throughput screening methods and tissue-engineered scaffolds for generating complex tissue structures in vitro.

His recent publications reveal a strong trajectory in neural organoid development, CNS vascularization, and microphysiological systems. The research demonstrates quantitative approaches to understanding stem cell differentiation, with applications spanning from fundamental developmental biology to clinical regenerative medicine. Key technological innovations include advanced microelectrode arrays and high-throughput screening platforms for neural tissue engineering.

Notable awards include:

• 2023 AIMBE Fellowship
• 2020 WARF Innovation Award
• 2018 UW-Madison College of Engineering Equity & Diversity Award
• 2017 NSF CAREER Award
• 2016 Regenerative Medicine Workshop Young Investigator Award

Ashton actively mentors graduate students through thesis research (BME 890, BME 990) and teaches core courses including Biological Interactions with Materials (BME 430). His laboratory operates as an interdisciplinary team bringing together engineering, biology, and materials science expertise to develop regenerative therapies, with current focus on central nervous system applications and expanding interests in vascular and muscular tissues.

The Stem Cell Bioprocessing and Regenerative Biomaterials Laboratory maintains active collaborations across disciplines and continues to develop novel approaches for high-order tissue structure generation using human pluripotent stem cells. Current research directions include expanding into vascular and muscular tissue systems while refining quantitative methodologies for stem cell microenvironment characterization.