Trainees

Studies mucin dynamics to understand its role in friction and shear dissipation. Also investigates how mechanical priming modulates MSC-derived chondrocyte and macrophage behavior under stimulated joint conditions.

Studies how the mechanical environment affects the development of a more aggressive disease state in pancreatic cancer.

Investigates the impact of different mechanical micro-environments on the epigenetic reprogramming of stem cells and mammary epithelial stem cells. Also interested in determining how these epigenetic marks are changed or held stable when cells migrate between micro-environments.

Completed explorations in the labs of Dr. Stowers, Dr. Dey, Dr. Dressaire, and Dr. Montell. Currently completing rotations in the lab of Dr. Dewey, having previously completed one in the lab of Dr. Montell

Investigates extracellular vesicles derived from extracellular matrix as drivers of musculoskeletal tissue repair in collagen biomaterial scaffolds. Also, applies human bone tissue engineering strategies toward coral regeneration.

Completed explorations in the labs of Dr. Saleh, Dr. Pruitt, Dr. Dressaire, and Dr. Stowers. Currently completing rotations in the lab of Dr. Dressaire.

Studies the role of viscoelasticity on cell migration through a fibrillar network, using 3D cell cultures to determine the effects of matrix stiffness and stress relaxation on the activation of fibroblasts.

Studies the mechanics of collective cell migration and how different genes modulate the morphology of border cell clusters, a group of 6-8 cells in the Drosophila egg chamber that are an in vivo model for cluster migration. Also investigates additional Rho effectors.

Aims to create stable 3D channels in granular gel informing a functional artificial vascular that will support the growth of tissures in the selected culture medium.

Focuses on improving EAB sensor responses to small changes in target concentration by designing complex binding mechanisms.

Studies measurement and modeling of suspended particulates in complex fluids, such as blood or tissue.

Currently completing a joint rotation in the labs of Dr. Pruitt and Dr. Stowers

T32 Trainee, Department of Bioengineering

Program Mentor: Prof. Marley Dewey

Studies vesicle pore opening and disassembly by using colloidal membranes. Also seeks to make cross-linked vesicles that do not fall apart in the absence of depletants, resulting in vesicles with tunable pore sizes.

Investigates the mechanism behind how genes govern plasma membrane cholesterol levels and the actin cytoskeleton, enhance trogocytosis mediated death

Aims to identify the fewest components required to generate sustained beating features in active microtubule-kinesin motor systems to develop synthetic cilia

Studying how CRISPR-cas13d could be used to implement genetic control systems in bacterial cells

Aims to prevent infection of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation on biomaterial implants used to treat major bone defects