William Murphy

William Murphy is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with affiliated roles in Materials Science & Engineering. His research focuses on creating bioinspired biomaterials, defining stem cell microenvironments, advancing tissue regeneration, and developing novel drug/gene delivery systems.

• Education
  • PhD (2002) and MS (2000) from University of Michigan
  • BA (1998) from Illinois Wesleyan University

Murphy’s work bridges materials science and biomedical applications, emphasizing synthetic hydrogels, mineral-coated substrates, and interdisciplinary approaches to regenerative medicine. His research includes organoid modeling, mRNA therapeutics, and plant-derived scaffolds.

Key scientific awards include the Kellett Award (2021), NSF CAREER Award (2008), and fellowships from the Biomedical Engineering Society (2020) and American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (2014). He has also received teaching honors like the UW Teaching Academy Award (2005).

Murphy’s publications highlight advancements in biomaterials for stem cell culture, spinal cord repair, cardiomyocyte differentiation, and mRNA stabilization. His lab explores both synthetic and plant-based scaffolds, cytokine delivery, and genome editing applications.

• Grants
  • NIH National Research Service Award (2003)
  • NIH Cellular Biotechnology Predoctoral Fellowship (2000)
  • NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates Fellowship (1997)