In addition to its annual lectures, ChBE hosts a weekly seminar throughout the year with invited lecturers who are prominent in their fields. Unless otherwise noted, all seminars are held on Wednesdays in the Molecular Science and Engineering Building ("M" Building) in G011 (Cherry Logan Emerson Lecture Theater) at 4:00 p.m. Refreshments are served at 3:30 p.m. in the Emerson-Lewis Reception Salon.

––––––––––––––––

Biomaterial Design:  Going Beyond Elastic Modulus

The importance of biomaterial stiffness in regulating cell behavior is currently a focus of intense research.  For example, we have recently demonstrated that the elastic modulus of biomaterials regulates stem cell fate in 3D culture in vitro, and tissue regeneration in vivo.  However, biological materials are typically viscoelastic, exhibiting relaxation over a characteristic time-scale.  We are exploring how stress relaxation regulates cell function, and can inspire new approaches to on-demand drug delivery, and the design of super-tough gels.