This research examines historical struggles over who controls medical devices in the United States. Using cases like the open-source “EpiPencil,” it traces twentieth-century conflicts among doctors, engineers, industry, and government. The study challenges linear progress narratives and shows how shifting claims to expertise shape medical technology and authority.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) causes severe breathing failure and kills tens of thousands annually, yet has no effective treatment. This research studies how ARDS disrupts lung surfactant, a critical stabilizing substance in the lungs. By identifying immune-related factors that damage surfactant, the work aims to develop the first targeted therapeutic cure.

Over 100,000 people await organ transplants, yet preservation limits organs to hours. This research uses radio-frequency sensors to rapidly pre-screen cryoprotective chemicals through dielectric fingerprints, reducing testing from days to minutes. Faster identification of effective preservation agents could extend organ viability and save thousands of lives.

The speaker investigates why surgical sutures often fail and explores bio-inspired alternatives. Studying freshwater mussels—experts at sticking to wet surfaces—they analyze adhesive proteins to design stronger, water-compatible tissue adhesives. This research aims to create safer, more reliable surgical closure methods that reduce complications, infections, and reliance on traditional suturing.

This research transforms natural silk fibers into biodegradable “silk paper” membranes that support bone regeneration for dental implants. Unlike titanium meshes, silk papers dissolve in the body, eliminating the need for a second surgery. They support human cell growth, reduce costs, and promise safer, more accessible dental and medical treatments.

My research develops a gentle cancer treatment using ultrasound to activate specialised LDH particles inside tumour cells. These particles release ROS “micro-explosions” that kill cancer without surgery or chemotherapy. Enhanced with MRI-visible metals, the method offers a safe, targeted therapy that destroys breast cancer cells using sound instead of pain.