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Faculty Search Research Seminar: Marc A. Fernández-Yagüe
February 23, 2023 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
ME Faculty Candidate Seminar:
“Synthetic Biomaterials for in situ Cell Therapies: Directing Cellular Function from Within”
presented by
Postdoctoral Scholar
Georgia Institute of Technology
Thursday, February 23, 2023, 11:00 am
2540 ME Grand Conference Room
GG Brown Building
Abstract:
Interventions utilizing synthetic biomaterials for the modulation of cellular behavior in situ present a unique solution to the persistent challenges in cell manufacturing and conventional cell therapies. By engineering non-biological materials to transmit biological signals, we have the ability to fine-tune adhesive forces, regulate cellular mechanotransduction, and shape the immune response to create an optimal milieu for tissue healing. In my talk, I will delve into the techniques of harnessing the instructive power of the immune system, leveraging the advantages of synthetic biomaterials, and integrating the principles of mechanobiology to guide tissue repair and advance the implementation of these methods in translational medicine.
Bio:
Dr. Fernandez is a postdoctoral scholar at the Georgia Institute of Technology supported by the European Research Council (ERC) Marie-Curie Fellowship. He received his Ph.D. (2019) at the University of Galway and holds an M.S. (2014) in Materials Science and B.S. (2012) in Mechanical Engineering from the Polytechnical University of Catalonia. His research synergizes concepts of mechanobiology, cell engineering, and materials science to systematically explore the impact of biophysical forces in regulating the immune–stromal signaling axis in health and disease and exploits these insights to engineer next-generation biomaterials-based regenerative medicine strategies. He has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Julia Polak Award (ERC), NextProf (GT&U-M), and Rising Star in Health and Engineering (Columbia & JHU).