Prof. Marcy Zenobi-Wong is a Full Professor at ETH Zurich's Department of Health Sciences and Technology, specializing in biofabrication and tissue engineering. Her research focuses on cartilage regeneration using advanced biomaterials, including nanofilm coatings and 3D printing techniques. She holds patents in tissue engineering and has pioneered methods like filamented light (FLight) biofabrication for creating anisotropic tissues. Her academic journey includes a B.Sc. from MIT (1985), M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Stanford (1987, 1990), followed by postdoctoral work at the University of Michigan. She leads the Biofabrication Group at ETH, developing therapies for joint repair and regenerative medicine. Courses taught include Biomedical Engineering and Materials and Mechanics in Medicine . Research highlights include engineered hydrogels for cartilage protection, CRISPR-driven gene editing in chondrocytes, and biohybrid neural interfaces. Her work bridges material science, cell biology, and clinical applications, with a focus on translational medicine. Collaborative projects involve creating elastic cartilage grafts for microtia reconstruction and volumetric printing of complex tissue constructs.
Michael McAlpine is a Professor in the Mechanical Engineering department at the University of Minnesota . He also holds affiliations with the Biomedical Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering departments. His research focuses on 3D printing functional materials & devices , Nanoscale inks , Biomedical devices , Bioelectronics , and Flexible Microsystems . Research Interests : 3D Printing, Biomedical Engineering, Nanotechnology, Flexible Electronics, Microfluidics Labs : ME 361/363 Contact : mcalpine@umn.edu , (612) 626-3303, ME 117 Recent Research Trends include 3D Printed Biomedical Devices , Flexible Electronics , and Bioprinting Applications . His work spans from Spinal Organoid Formation to Programmable Drug Release Capsules . Scientific Award : Circulation Research 2020 Best Manuscript Award
Dr. Sophie Koch is a Lecturer at ETH Zürich's Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering. Her research focuses on bio-based composites, circular wood use, and enhancing wood properties. She leads the research streams 'Enhanced wood properties' and 'Resource-efficient wood utilization.' Education: PhD Candidate (2020-2023): ETH Zurich, Wood Materials Science Group MSc in Biobased Materials (2018-2020): Maastricht University BSc in Wood Technology (2013-2017): UAS Rottenburg Key Research Themes: Her work emphasizes sustainable material innovation through bio-based composites, wood recycling, and functionalization of wood for advanced applications like soft actuators and energy-harvesting systems. Recent publications highlight advancements in transparent wood films, triboelectric nanogenerators, and durable delignified composites. Professional Experience: Postdoctoral Researcher & Lecturer (2024-2024) Master’s Thesis at Swiss Wood Solutions AG (2019-2020) Research Assistant at UAS Rottenburg (2017-2018) Journalist at Holz-Zentralblatt (2014-2017) Labs & Teams: Active in the Professur Holzbasierte Materialien research group at ETH Zürich's HIF E 20.1 laboratory.
Zoran Cenev holds a Tenure Track Assistant Professor position within the Mechatronics and Dynamics section of the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering at the School of Engineering, Aarhus University. His primary institutional affiliation is with AU Engineering, and contact details include email zoran.cenev@mpe.au.dk and telephone +45 20 64 75 44, with office location Aarhus N, 5128-140. Research interests focus on interdisciplinary applications of magnetic and robotic systems: Robotic micromanipulation via electromagnetic needles Ferrofluid-based biofabrication for skeletal muscle engineering Laser-induced photothermal droplet control Theoretical modeling of particle dynamics at fluid interfaces Surface engineering for underwater metallic stability Nanostructure formation through ion bombardment His recent publications (2023-2025) reveal a dominant trend in adapting ferrofluids for biomedical automation, particularly 3D bioprinting of magnetically responsive tissues and droplet manipulation on engineered surfaces. This work bridges mechanical engineering with regenerative medicine, emphasizing practical implementations of theoretical models for microscale precision. Scientific awards are not documented in the provided information. As a faculty member, Dr. Cenev likely mentors graduate students and pursues research grants, though specific advisees or funding details are absent. Departmental laboratories and workshops support his experimental work in mechatronics, with emphasis on magnetic manipulation systems and surface characterization.
Marcos Cruz is Professor of Innovative Environments at The Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London (UCL), where he leads research in bio-integrated design. He runs Bio-ID with Dr. Brenda Parker, a multidisciplinary research platform investigating design driven by biotechnology, computation, materials, and fabrication. Previously, he served as Director of The Bartlett from 2010-2014 and founded the BiotA Lab (2014-2018). His academic career spans multiple institutions including University College London (where he ran MArch Unit 20 for 19 years), University of Westminster (2008-2010), UCLA (2010), and IAAC (2014-present). Professor Cruz holds a Licenciatura from ESAP Porto, a Masters with distinction from UCL, and a PhD from UCL (2007), sponsored by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology. His doctoral research on 'Neoplasmatic Architecture' earned him the RIBA President's Research Award in 2008. He is a registered architect with both the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Portuguese Architecture Chamber. His primary research area is Bio-Integrated Design, which explores how biotechnology and computation can reshape our built environment in response to climate change. This work goes beyond using nature as inspiration; instead, it treats nature as the medium for a multi-layered design approach. His key research project, Poikilohydric Living Walls, investigates integrating growth systems directly on building facades using algae and mosses that can switch photosynthetic activity on and off without additional maintenance. Another significant research area is The Body in Architecture, which examines the relationship between human flesh and architectural flesh, proposing a 'thick embodied flesh' that creates truly inhabitable architectural interfaces. His recent publications demonstrate a strong progression toward integrating living systems directly into building materials and facades. The research spans from microbial to tectonic scales, with increasing focus on biomaterials, robotic fabrication, and sustainable design approaches that actively participate in urban ecosystems rather than merely responding to them. RIBA President's Research Award (2008) for 'Neoplasmatic Architecture' Multiple Best Unit awards at Bartlett Summer Show (awarded by Thom Mayne, Paul Finch, Richard Rogers, Claude Parent, and Ross Lovegrove) Work part of permanent collection at FRAC Orleans Exhibitions at Venice and São Paulo Biennales Professor Cruz has supervised numerous PhD students through UCL's Research-by-Design programme and currently directs the MArch/MSc in Bio-Integrated Design. His research has been supported by EPSRC and involves industrial partners including Laing O'Rourke, Pennine Stone Limited, and Amorim, with academic partners at UCL Biochemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, and IST Tomar. He co-founded MAM-ARCH London (formerly marcosandmarjan) in 2000, whose work has built buildings and pavilions, won international competitions including the Kunsthaus Graz, and been exhibited globally. His practice represents a significant bridge between architectural design and biological systems, positioning him at the forefront of bio-integrated architectural research.
Mathias Funk is an Associate Professor in the Industrial Design department at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), leading the Things Ecology lab. His research focuses on designing with data and systems behavior, particularly in IoT and medical technology contexts. He co-founded UXsuite GmbH and developed the OOCSI communication framework. With a PhD in Electrical Engineering from TU/e (2011), Funk has held academic roles since 2013, including postdoctoral positions in Electrical Engineering and Industrial Design. He teaches courses like 'Data-enabled design' and supervises projects on AI, data foundry, and OOCSI applications. His work bridges engineering and design, addressing sustainability and human values through systemic design approaches. Education: PhD in Electrical Engineering, TU/e (2011) Computer Science background from RWTH Aachen Postdoc at TU/e's Electrical Engineering and Industrial Design departments Research Interests: Data-driven design methodologies, IoT systems, medical technology innovation, sustainable design practices, and interactive systems for musical expression. Recent work emphasizes telemonitoring efficacy in heart failure care and federated learning applications. Awards: Best Paper Award (2014) Honorable Mention (2021) Grants/Projects: Leading initiatives like MEDICAID (medtech solutions), ACACIA (interpretable AI), and Data-Driven Servitizing in Professional Printing. Active in clinical workflow prototyping and cardiovascular disease detection projects. Lab Activities: Manages the Things Ecology lab, focusing on systemic design challenges in smart ecosystems. Collaborates internationally through spin-offs and visiting lectureships.
Suradip Das is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, where he serves as a Senior Research Investigator. His work bridges neural engineering and regenerative medicine to address critical challenges in nerve and muscle repair. His academic training includes: B.Tech in Biotechnology from Heritage Institute of Technology (2010) PhD in Biosciences and Bioengineering from Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (2016) Dr. Das specializes in biomaterials development , peripheral nerve injury models , neuromuscular interface engineering , and stem cell-based regeneration . His research pioneers innervated tissue-engineered muscle constructs, demonstrating how motor neurons and endothelial cells synergistically enhance skeletal myocyte maturation. He innovates custom mechanobioreactors that apply tensile forces to guide nanofiber alignment for optimal myofiber formation, significantly advancing volumetric muscle loss treatments. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a dominant focus on neuromuscular regeneration (75% of articles), with emerging exploration of psychedelic compounds in neural repair. His work consistently integrates human iPSC-derived models , multi-cellular co-cultures , and large-animal validation to address translational gaps. Key trends include optogenetic control of motor units (2023), porcine nerve injury models (2020), and the critical role of pre-innervation in creating pro-regenerative microenvironments (2020-2022). As a core member of the Cullen Lab, Dr. Das collaborates on developing biofabricated neural microtissues for delayed nerve fusion and rapid functional recovery. His research directly informs clinical strategies for peripheral nerve repair and muscle regeneration through rigorous mechanistic studies and innovative engineering solutions.
Foteini Mourkioti is an Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine , with a joint appointment in the Graduate Groups of Cell and Molecular Biology and Bioengineering . She co-directs the Musculoskeletal Regeneration Program at the Penn Institute of Regenerative Medicine and leads the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory . Research Interests : Muscle Stem Cell Biology Mechanobiology Muscle Regeneration Telomere Biology in Muscular Diseases Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) Cardiomyopathy and Aging Key Research Contributions : Developed the Pax7EGFP mouse model for real-time muscle stem cell tracking Discovered telomere shortening as a critical factor in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Elucidated the role of NF-κB in muscle stem cell dysfunction Identified Piezo1's role in stem cell morphological states Characterized fibro-adipogenic progenitor dynamics in FOP Scientific Awards : NIH/NHLBI R01 grant recipient (2019) NASA grant awardee (2020, 2017) American Heart Association grant (2017) Muscular Dystrophy Association grant (2019) University Research Foundation grant (2018) Publications & Collaborations : Over 25 publications in high-impact journals like Science Advances , Nature Protocols , and Cell Reports . Collaborates with Penn Cardiovascular Institute and Pennsylvania Muscle Institute.
Thomas Winkler is an Associate Professor at the Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden, and collaborates with TU Braunschweig, Germany. His research focuses on solving life science challenges using microsystems tools, particularly in neuropsychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. He develops organ-on-chip models, engineered microfluidic platforms, and biosensors for point-of-care diagnostics. Winkler leads an interdisciplinary ERC-funded team addressing metabolic coupling in neurovascular units and oxidative stress biomarkers. Key achievements include the ERC Starting Grant (2023) and work on electrochemical sensors for clozapine monitoring. He teaches courses such as Microsystem Technology (EK2350) and supervises PhD and postdoctoral researchers. Current projects include machine learning-guided robotic organoid maturation and electrochemical technology development for the CHIPzophrenia initiative. His lab actively seeks talent through open positions in Stockholm and Braunschweig. Scientific awards include the ERC Starting Grant and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Fellowship. Research spans sensor development, microfabrication, and biomaterials, with a focus on translating lab technologies to clinical applications. Collaborations bridge engineering and life sciences, emphasizing personalized mental healthcare solutions.
Pedro Fardim is a Professor at the KU Leuven , affiliated with the Faculty of Engineering Sciences, Department of Chemical Engineering , and leads the Chemical and Biochemical Reactor Technology and Safety (CREaS) division. He also serves as President of EPNOE (European Polysaccharide Network of Excellence) and is a member of multiple institutes including KU Leuven Brain Institute (LBI) , Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO) , and Institute for Micro- and Nano-scale Integration (LIMNI) . PhD in Chemistry, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Brazil Habilitation in Chemical Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Finland Pedro’s research focuses on topochemical engineering —mimicking natural bioassembly processes in trees and microorganisms to create sustainable materials and biofabrication technologies . His work spans drug delivery , regenerative medicine , biopolymer engineering , and green chemistry , with applications in pharmaceuticals , cosmetics , and energy . Recent projects include hydrogels for wearable sensors , biohybrid materials for bone tissue engineering , and lignin valorization using hydrotropic solvents. His scientific awards include Fellowships from the Royal Society of Chemistry and the International Academy of Wood Science , along with membership in the American Chemical Society . He teaches Chemical Engineering for Human Health , Biochemical Process Engineering , and Biopolymer-based Sustainable Technologies .
Orlando Rojas is a Professor at the University of British Columbia (UBC), holding joint appointments in the Departments of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Chemistry, and Wood Science. He leads the Biobased Colloids and Materials (BiCMat) research group and directs the Bioproducts Institute . His research focuses on sustainable development through renewable materials, including nanopolysaccharides, bacterial nanocellulose, lignins, and multiphase systems. Rojas has advised over 50 PhD students and 40+ MS students, with a h-index of 90 (Google Scholar). Key Roles/Positions : Canada Excellence Research Chair in Renewable Materials Adjunct Professor at NC State University (USA) and Dalian Polytechnic University (China) Director of FinnCERES Flagship (Finland) Research Interests : Development of bio-based materials for energy, healthcare, and environmental applications. Key areas include nanocellulose functionalization, lignin valorization, and bioinspired materials. His work integrates colloidal science, multiphase systems, and sustainable manufacturing. Grants & Awards : ERC Advanced Grant and Horizon H2020 funding 2013 ACS Fellow, 2015 Tappi Nanotechnology Award First Latin-American recipient of the Anselme Payen Award (ACS) Labs & Collaborations : Active partnerships with Aalto University (Finland) and institutions globally. Leads the BiCMat group spanning UBC and FinnCERES, focusing on bio-based materials and sustainable technologies.
LU Wen Feng is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the National University of Singapore (NUS), affiliated with the College of Design and Engineering. His research focuses on advanced manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing, robotics, and AI-driven systems. He explores sustainable design methodologies, smart manufacturing innovations, and bioprinting applications. Key areas include optimizing material processes, enhancing mechanical properties of printed materials, and developing autonomous robotic solutions for industrial tasks. Contact: mpelwf@nus.edu.sg , located at E3-02-07. Research Interests : His work bridges AI and manufacturing, emphasizing Knowledge graph integration for additive manufacturing, Autonomous robotic systems in industrial settings, Bioprinting for tissue repair with smart bioinks, Topology optimization for lightweight and sustainable structures, Material characterization and process engineering for 3D-printed composites. Recent Article Trends : LU Wen Feng's 2025 articles highlight advancements in AI-augmented manufacturing systems (e.g., MaViLa, AutoMEX) and sustainable design workflows. His 2024 studies address material anisotropy, corrosion behavior, and topology optimization strategies for lattice structures. These trends reflect his interdisciplinary approach to solving challenges in additive manufacturing, robotics, and biomedical applications. Awards : No scientific awards explicitly mentioned. Advising & Grants : No current graduate students or grants listed. His research likely integrates industry-academia collaborations given the focus on applied manufacturing technologies. Labs/Teams : Not explicitly detailed, but his work suggests involvement in advanced manufacturing labs and AI-robotics teams at NUS.
Associate Professor Arnold Lining Ju is a biomedical engineer at the University of Sydney's School of Biomedical Engineering, affiliated with multiple institutes including the Heart Research Institute and Sydney Nano Institute. He holds academic positions in both the Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Medicine & Health. Education: BSc from Peking University, PhD from Georgia Tech and Emory University (USA). Honors include Snow Fellowship, Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellowship, and multiple awards for cardiovascular research innovation. Research focuses on mechanobiology and biomechanics of thrombosis, developing microfluidic devices and organ-on-chip systems. Key projects include AI-driven single-cell nanotools, 3D biofabrication, and anti-thrombotic peptide design. Leads interdisciplinary teams and collaborates internationally with institutions like Harvard and University of Texas. Teaching roles include coordinating advanced cellular biomechanics courses and supervising PhD/Masters students in biomedical engineering and physiology. Over 50 peer-reviewed publications, with contributions to Nature Materials, Nature Communications, and other top journals.
Dr. Darryl Dickerson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Florida International University (FIU), part of the College of Engineering. His research focuses on mechanical characterization of biological interfaces, design of bioinspired materials, and advancing inclusive engineering education practices. He holds a Ph.D. (details not explicitly provided in text). Research Interests: Dr. Dickerson’s work bridges biomechanics and biomaterials engineering with social equity in education. Key areas include: Mechanical properties of biological interfaces (e.g., bone-cartilage junctions) Development of biomaterials for tissue repair using 3D printing and electrospinning Anti-marginalization strategies in engineering education, particularly for Black and Brown students Publications Trends: Recent work emphasizes dual themes: (1) Biomedical innovation through advanced material fabrication and (2) Inclusive pedagogy addressing systemic inequities in STEM education. Notable contributions include scaffold designs for osteochondral repair and frameworks for reducing microaggressions in team-based learning. Grants and Advising: No specific grants or advisees listed in the provided text. His work appears to be grant-funded through NIH/National Science Foundation pathways common in biomaterials and education research. Labs and Teams: While not explicitly stated, his research likely involves collaborations with FIU’s Center for Engineering and Computing’s diversity initiatives and biomaterials labs focusing on tissue engineering applications.
Laura Devendorf is an Associate Professor at the ATLAS Institute and Department of Information Science at the University of Colorado Boulder. As director of the Unstable Design Lab, she bridges human-computer interaction (HCI), computational design, and craft practices through smart textiles and collaborative innovation. BFA in Studio Art and BS in Computer Science from University of California Santa Barbara PhD in Information Science from UC Berkeley Research Interests focus on smart textiles as a medium to challenge human-machine relationships, with projects exploring: Computational design tools for weaving Gendered labor in technology Biodegradable materials for wearables Interdisciplinary collaboration with craftspeople Speculative design practices Human-fungi relationships Recent Research Trends demonstrate her leadership in: AdaCAD software for parametric weaving Desktop biofiber spinning systems Interactive hygromorphic textiles Material-led HCI frameworks Scientific Recognition : Best Pictorial Award (TEI '23) Best Paper Honorable Mention (DIS ’22) Honorable Mention (CHI EA ’20) Best Pictorial Honorable Mention (DIS ’22) Collaborations & Grants : NSF CAREER Grant (2020) for smart textiles innovation Extensive partnerships with Mirela Alistar, Kristina Andersen, and others Advancing open-source tools like AdaCAD and Desktop Bio-spinning
