Lecture 16: Regenerative Engineering
Speaker: Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, University Professor, University of Connecticut
Sponsored by: Elsevier and Mechanics Research Communications in partnership with the Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering
Date and Time: April 16, 2024, 11.00 (EST) Virtual Webinar via Microsoft Team
Abstract: Regenerative Engineering is defined as the Convergence of Advanced Materials Science, Stem Cell Science, Physics, Developmental Biology and Clinical Translation for the Regeneration of Complex Tissues and Organ Systems. Over the past 35 years work in the Laurencin Laboratories has focused on translating discoveries to people. The theme of the laboratory has been to “Explore, Discover, Treat, Cure, Teach, Repeat.” The Cato T. Laurencin Institute, a cross university Institute at UConn has 6 pillars. Two are “Transformative Technologies for Humanity” and “Entrepreneurship and Economic Value Creation.” It is through the use of principles of regenerative engineering, and employing the pillars, innovative technologies have been inspired helping millions of people throughout the world
Biography: Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D. earned his B.S.E. in Chemical Engineering from Princeton, his M.D. from the Harvard Medical School, and his Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology from M.I.T. He pioneered the Regenerative Engineering field. In receiving the Spingarn Medal, he was named the world’s foremost engineer-physician-scientist. Dr. Laurencin pioneered the novel use of polymeric biomaterials for treating musculoskeletal conditions. In recognition of his achievements, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers created the Cato T. Laurencin Regenerative Engineering Founder’s Award. Dr. Laurencin’s work spans fundamental science, applied science, and technology translation. He received the highest honors in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biological Engineering, Medical and Biological Engineering and Surgery. He is the first person to receive both the Simon Ramo Founder’s Award from the National Academy of Engineering and the Walsh McDermott Medal from the National Academy of Medicine. Dr. Laurencin was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, America’s highest honor for technological advancement, by President Barack Obama at the White House. Dr. Laurencin is the University Professor and Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor at the University of Connecticut. He is the Chief Executive Officer of the Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering at UConn.