Molly Shoichet

Research Synopsis

Our research program requires a cross-disciplinary approach where aspects of engineering, chemistry, and biology are applied to the fields of Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery. We approach unsolved problems in medicine by creating a series of design criteria which we then use to formulate solutions. Our laboratory has designed novel injectable hydrogels for local delivery to the injured spinal cord and brain.

We have created novel polymeric nanoparticles for targeted delivery in cancer. We have pursued tissue engineered 3-dimensional constructs to spatially control cell differentiation, using multiphoton laser excitation and advanced photochemistry to design defined chemical matrices. We have explored cell transplantation strategies using tubular scaffolds and injectable materials. While the laboratory is pursuing a diversity of projects, they are linked by the common theme of polymeric design for medical application.