Ruogang Zhao

Ruogang Zhao is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University at Buffalo, affiliated with the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. His research focuses on cytoskeleton mechanics, cell motility, and the molecular basis of pulmonary diseases. He leads studies on engineered tissue models (e.g., lung microtissues) to investigate fibrosis mechanisms and develop anti-fibrosis therapies. Dr. Zhao’s work integrates 3D bioprinting, organ-on-a-chip systems, and mechanobiology to address challenges in regenerative medicine and disease modeling.

Key research areas include:

• Development of biomimetic microtissue platforms for drug screening
• Role of mechanical forces in macrophage activation and fibrosis progression
• 3D printing of hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties for biomedical applications
• Effects of e-cigarette components on lung fibroblast behavior and repair processes

His recent work emphasizes translational research, such as force-sensing microfabricated devices and lung-targeted nanotherapeutics. Dr. Zhao’s contributions span biomaterials science, immunology, and mechanobiology, with applications in respiratory disease and cancer therapy. He directs the Cell, Gene and Tissue Engineering Center at the University at Buffalo, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in bioengineering.