Descriptions

My research focuses on three core areas:

• bio-interfacial engineering for neuroprosthetics;
• polymer based bioelectronics; and
• biomaterials for regenerative medicine.

Current bioelectronic devices including the bionic eye, pacemakers, robotic limb prostheses and brain-machine interfaces have the ability to further improve the quality of life for millions of people globally. Key to making these devices effective over extended patient lifetimes and hence commercially viable is the development of advanced materials which improve device functionality. I believe the most important factor is the interface where synthetic device meets the biological environment. To this end, my research group aims to understand cell-material interactions and design appropriate material interfaces with bioactive components which will promote intimate integration between tissue and device. Specifically we do this through the design, modification, fabrication and characterisation of polymer based systems.