This research develops biodegradable “living” water filters grown from kombucha cellulose membranes. Unlike conventional plastic filters, these biofilters can self-defend against harmful microbes and self-repair when damaged. The work aims to create affordable, sustainable, and effective water filtration systems that reduce plastic waste while improving access to clean drinking water.

This research develops a new chemical process for modifying cellulose while keeping it in water, overcoming longstanding compatibility problems between cellulose and oil-soluble molecules. The method enables cellulose to incorporate electronic and pharmaceutical components, opening pathways toward sustainable electronics, advanced materials, targeted medicines, and greener technologies based on renewable natural resources.

This research addresses the short lifespan of dental fillings by drawing inspiration from natural tooth structure. Using physics-based simulations, it designs materials with improved bonding and durability. The work has broader applications in aerospace, implants, and protective materials, demonstrating how bio-inspired engineering can enhance performance across multiple high-stress environments.

This research explores asthma by recreating lung airways using 3D bioprinting. By simulating low-oxygen conditions and imaging structural changes, it investigates how exaggerated immune responses narrow airways. These models enable detailed study of disease mechanisms and offer a platform to develop treatments, ultimately advancing efforts toward preventing or curing asthma.

This thesis developed multifunctional 3D-printed scaffolds for repairing critical-size mandibular bone defects. Using bioactive ceramics, surface coatings, and prevascularization strategies, it promoted both osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Results show that combining geometry, materials, and biological signals enables synergistic tissue regeneration, offering less-invasive alternatives to autologous bone grafts.

This research develops smart, biodegradable bone scaffolds that guide regeneration in severe fractures. By delivering healing molecules directly to damaged tissue, the scaffolds promote stronger bone growth, reduce inflammation, and eliminate the need for repeated surgeries, enabling faster and more natural recovery in children.

Dental implants restore missing teeth but face high infection rates. This research investigates zirconia crown design, bacterial leakage, and material strength. Using microscopy and mechanical testing, it identifies a three-step sealing method for implant screw access holes, reducing infection risk and improving long-term implant success and patient confidence.

This research presents an anti-inflammatory surgical gel that actively reprograms the immune response at the injury site. Rather than masking symptoms, it promotes proper healing, reduces prolonged inflammation, and improves recovery—especially for patients with delayed healing, such as those with diabetes—aligning biomaterials with modern surgical precision.

Corneal scarring causes widespread vision loss and is poorly treated by transplantation alone. This research develops a bioengineered corneal glue that both seals and heals wounds by promoting cell infiltration and reducing fibrosis. The approach enables scar-free healing, lowers transplant rejection risk, and offers a regenerative alternative to sutures and conventional sealants.

My research develops smart polymer wound dressings that detect infections in chronic wounds through a visible color change. By providing immediate, non-invasive alerts, these materials enable faster treatment, reduce hospitalizations and amputations, and improve outcomes for people with diabetes and chronic wound conditions.