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).
January 2015
Kartik has received the NSF CAREER Award! For details visit here.
October 2014
The MSML had an excellent showing at the recently concluded Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) Annual Meeting at San Antonio, TX, with 5 posters and 1 oral presentation!
August 2014
The MSML recently received funding from the Arkansas Biosciences Institute and the National Science Foundation.
May 2014
Congratulations to Patrick, Chris and Stephanie on their graduation! We wish them all the best in their future endeavors!
April 2014
Congratulations to Nasya for being awarded the prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowship! Nasya and Stephanie (SURF award) were honored at the University State and National Awards Reception. Congratulations to them! Congratulations to Ngoc for being a finalist for...