Project Description
In this project, you will learn to 3D print unique tissue based biomaterials. You will learn to process tissues to remove the cell contents and leave behind the extracellular matrix (ECM). You will then learn to process the ECM from a variety of tissues (bone, cartilage, muscle, etc.) and combine the tissue with a natural hyaluronic acid based hydrogel. You will then learn to 3D print the processed materials, and will optimize the printing parameters to ensure consistent and reliable printing. You will likely also learn cell culture techniques to optimize and analyze the viability of cell when printing in the biomaterial. Student will split time between processing tissues through the decellularization protocol, optimizing and testing bioink printability, and analyzing/compiling results to present to the group and potentially in grants or publications. All training will be performed in the lab for your specific tasks, so no specific pre-requisites are required. We are looking for a student who enjoys troubleshooting, works well in a team/with a partner, and is potentially interested in continuing the work past the summer.
Special Requirements
While no pre-requisites, knowledge of CAD and 3D slicing software would be useful.
Contact
- Corey Neu (facutly)
- Jeanne Barthold (graduate student)