Welcome to the Mechanobiology and Soft Materials Laboratory (MSML).
Our laboratory investigates the role of mechanical forces on physiology, function and disease. In particular, we are interested in understanding the interaction between structure and mechanics in regulating biological responses at different length-scales.
We employ micro- and nano-fabrication tools to recreate the cellular and tissue environment in the laboratory. We also utilize live imaging, cell/tissue mechanics and tissue engineering techniques to understand several cardiovascular bioengineering problems including cardiac valve calcification, valve fusion and blood-brain barrier dysfunction. Knowledge gained from these studies will help guide the development of medical interventions and regenerative therapies.
Interested in Graduate or Postdoctoral positions? Please send an inquiry to Dr. Balachandran with a CV (including standardized test scores, research experience and publication list).
Ishita receives AHA Predoc Fellowship!
Congrats to Ishita for receiving an AHA Predoctoral Fellowship!
Balalab presentations in London and Atlanta!
Balalab members presented their research at the London Heart Valve Meeting and at BMES 2018!
Balalab receives NSF Funding!
Balalab and the Wolchok lab receive NSF funding to study the role of repeated traumatic impacts on blood-brain barrier dysfunction!
Ngoc and Nasya defend their PhD dissertations and graduate!
Congrats to Ngoc Lam and Nasya Sturdivant! First two PhD graduates from the Balalab!
Balalab receives AHA Funding!
Balalab receives AHA AIREA funding to study the role of renin-angiotensin signaling on early aortic valve disease progression!