Project Mentor

Dr. Lakshmi Nair
Orthopaedic Surgery

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	Over the years, our studies have led to the development of injectable hydrogels from proteins and polysaccharides. The proposed studies will evaluate various processing parameters to modulate the physical and biological properties of the injectable hydrogels for regenerative applications. These include chemical modification of the existing injectable hydrogels and or modulating the physical and mechanical properties using various processing conditions.
Project Direction	One of the major focuses of our studies has been to develop injectable hydrogels as biocompatible and biodegradable carriers for cells and biological molecules. Injectable delivery systems are attractive alternatives to implantable carriers since they are capable of filling any tissue defect shape and suitable for minimally invasive administration of cells or biomolecules locally. The proposed study will focus on optimizing specific properties of the hydrogels and evaluate the resultant hydrogels as biomaterial carriers.
Student Qualifications	– Knowledge of biomaterials – Understand chemical reactions
Time Commitment	6 hours/week
Schedule Options	A minimum of 2-3 consecutive hours is required to make progress on research tasks
Project Continuation	Summer 2017 and/or Fall 2017
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity using the form below. The application deadline is Friday, January 6, 2017.

This application requires a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript, a brief statement of research interests, and a brief statement of career interests.