Sunday, November 17

Science and Technology

Sudha Anilkumar Joins SUPER VP Program as NSF REU Intern
Academic Achievements, opportunities, Science and Technology

Sudha Anilkumar Joins SUPER VP Program as NSF REU Intern

Sudha standing next to her posterSudha presenting her posterSudha presenting to Tari Santosa (middle) and Daedalus Chen (right) August 5, 2024 St. Louis, MO - This summer, Oyen Lab had the pleasure of welcoming Sudha Anilkumar, an undergraduate student from the University of Delaware, as a National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) intern through the Summer Undergraduate Program for Engineering Research Towards a Virtual Pregnancy (SUPER VP) program. Sudha, an undergraduate student from the University of Delaware, joined the Summer Program for Engineering Research Towards a Virtual Pregnancy. This program, hosted by the Center for Women's Health Engineering, is in its inaugural year, and we are thrilled to have Sudha as one of its pioneering parti...
🌍 Newsflash: Adrienne Scott and Samyuktha Kolluru Attend Wellcome In Utero Hackathon
Academic Achievements, events, Science and Technology

🌍 Newsflash: Adrienne Scott and Samyuktha Kolluru Attend Wellcome In Utero Hackathon

July 12th, 2024 St. Louis, MO - Dr. Adrienne Scott and Samyuktha Kolluru represented Oyen Lab in Washington University in St. Louis at the Wellcome In Utero Hackathon held in the United Kingdom from June 18-21, 2024. The hackathon showcased innovative techniques in the analysis of the placenta and maternal health. At the hackathon, Adrienne and Samyuktha developed multi-physics models of the placenta in collaboration with other In Utero Wellcome Leap teams.
Adrienne Scott and Samyuktha Kolluru Attend SB3C 2024 Conference
events, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Adrienne Scott and Samyuktha Kolluru Attend SB3C 2024 Conference

Samyuktha Kolluru presenting her poster.Dr. Adrienne Scott giving a presentation. July 12, 2024 St. Louis, MO - Oyen Lab in Washington University in St. Louis proudly announces the successful participation of Dr. Michelle Oyen, Dr. Adrienne Scott, and Samyuktha Kolluru in the Summer Biomechanics, Bioengineering, and Biotransport Conference (SB3C 2024). The event was held from June 11–14, 2024, at the Grand Geneva Resort in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Michelle, Adrienne, and Samyuktha engaged with fellow researchers, participated in discussions, and explored new ideas and technologies that can significantly impact human health. Samyuktha showcased her research poster titled, “Hydrogel Phantom System as Mechanical Placental Tissue Mimics,” and Adrienne was excited to present her work t...
Michelle Oyen chairs ERVA event to Transform Women’s Health Outcomes
Academic Achievements, events, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Michelle Oyen chairs ERVA event to Transform Women’s Health Outcomes

July 10, 2024 St Louis, MO - Dr. Michelle Oyen and PhD candidate Samyuktha Kolluru recently went to the Engineering Research Visioning Alliance (ERVA) event, "Transforming Women’s Health Outcomes through Engineering" on June 4th, 2024 which lasted Funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), this significant event aimed to revolutionize women's health with engineering. Dr. Oyen, an esteemed bioengineer and the inaugural Director of the Center for Women’s Health Engineering at Washington University, served as the chair of the event. She was joined by her scribe, Samyuktha Kolluru, a dedicated PhD candidate in Material Science and Engineering. The event also saw the collaboration of co-chair Kristin Myers, as they worked together to bring stakeholders from across the country t...
📣 Newsflash: Samantha Zambuto’s Successful Presentation at World Biomaterials Congress
Academic Achievements, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

📣 Newsflash: Samantha Zambuto’s Successful Presentation at World Biomaterials Congress

World Biomaterials Congress's BuildingDr. Samantha Zambuto standing next day's schedule.Dr. Samantha Zambuto (Left) and Dr. Juan Gnecco (right)Dr. Samantha Zambuto (Left) and Eya Ferchichi exploring Korea Date: July 5, 2024St Louis, MO - We're thrilled to report that Samantha Zambuto had a highly successful trip to the World Biomaterials Congress in Korea. Her insightful talk on "Biomaterials for Maternal-Fetal Interface," held on May 28, 2024, captivated the audience. Zambuto's presentation provided valuable insights into the use of biomaterials to improve maternal and fetal health, contributing to meaningful discussions among attendees.
📣 Newsflash: Samantha Zambuto to Present at World Biomaterials Congress in Korea
Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

📣 Newsflash: Samantha Zambuto to Present at World Biomaterials Congress in Korea

Date: May 24, 2024 St. Louis, MO - We’re excited to announce that Dr. Samantha Zambuto will be presenting a keynote address at World Biomaterials Congress in Korea! She will present her keynote titled “Biomimetic Scaffolds for Vaginal Tissue Engineering” during the “Biomaterials for Maternal-Fetal Interface” session from May 28, 2024, from 16:30 – 18:00 in room 314.
Innovative Biomedical Engineering Senior Design Project CerVos Unveiled on BME Day
Academic Achievements, Healthcare Research, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

Innovative Biomedical Engineering Senior Design Project CerVos Unveiled on BME Day

Tista Mandal, Kristina Dalton, and Abir Hamdaoui proudly showcase their innovative senior design project, CerVos, at BME Day.Abir Hamdaoui demonstrates CerVos, while Tista Mandal and Kristina Dalton stand beside our poster at BME Day. Date: April 30th, 2024 St. Louis, MO - Tista Mandal, Kristina Dalton, and Abir Hamdaoui, aspiring biomedical engineers, unveiled their groundbreaking senior design project, "CerVos: A Cervical Insufficiency Diagnostic Device to Prevent Preterm Labor," at the Washington University's Biomedical Engineering (BME) Day on April 29th, 2024. This pioneering project aims to address the critical issue of preterm labor through an innovative diagnostic approach. The CerVos device utilizes a spherical indentation technique to assess cervical stiffness and other...
🔬📚 Newsflash: New Research Paper Explores Impact of Gelatin Bloom Strength on GelMA Hydrogel Properties
Academic Publications, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

🔬📚 Newsflash: New Research Paper Explores Impact of Gelatin Bloom Strength on GelMA Hydrogel Properties

Date: March 29, 2024 St. Louis, MO - A recent research paper titled “Evaluation of gelatin bloom strength on gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel properties” was published by our group in the Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials. Authored by Dr. Samantha G. Zambuto, Samyuktha S. Kolluru, Eya Ferchichi, Hannah F. Rudewick, Daniella M. Fodera, Dr. Kristin M. Myers, Dr. Silviya P. Zustiak, and Dr. Michelle L. Oyen, the study investigates the impact of gelatin bloom strength on hydrogel mechanical properties. Results reveal that both bloom strength and GelMA weight percent influence stiffness and viscoelastic ratio, while bloom strength specifically affects diffusivity, permeability, and pore size. The research, showcasing a library of GelMA hydrogels with varying proper...
🔬📚 Newsflash: New Research Paper Explores Innovative Approaches to Placenta Modeling
Academic Publications, Healthcare Research, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

🔬📚 Newsflash: New Research Paper Explores Innovative Approaches to Placenta Modeling

Date: March 31, 2024 St. Louis, MO - A research paper titled “Beyond 2D: Novel biomaterial approaches for modeling the placenta” has been recently published by Dr. Samantha Zambuto, Dr. Adrienne Scott, and Dr. Michelle Oyen. The paper explores three-dimensional biomaterial environments for placenta research, offering insights into the complexities of this vital organ. Exploring advanced fabrication techniques such as microfluidic device fabrication and 3D bioprinting, the paper showcases the potential for in vitro, three-dimensional placenta research to address health disparities and sexual dimorphism. Overall, this paper provides a framework to understand and model the placenta, opening new avenues for future research in women’s health and pregnancy-related disorders. Read the ful...
Center for Reproductive Health Sciences and Center for Women’s Health Engineering Host Successful Open House Event
events, Science and Technology, Women's Health

Center for Reproductive Health Sciences and Center for Women’s Health Engineering Host Successful Open House Event

Elevating collaboration: A snapshot capturing the vibrant energy and knowledge exchange at the joint open house event hosted by CRepHS and CWHE. 🌐🔬Samantha Zambuto (right) and Julie Emmerich (left) proudly standing in front of our poster at the collaborative open house event hosted by CRepHS and CWHE.Adrienne Scott (right) engrossed in a dynamic conversation with Rowan Karvas (left).Samantha Zambuto (right) and Antonina Frolova (left) engrossed in a meaningful conversation. Date: December 6, 2023 St. Louis, MO - In a collaborative triumph, the Center for Reproductive Health Sciences (CRepHS) and the Center for Women's Health Engineering (CWHE) joined forces to host an immensely successful open house event on December 5, 2023. Held at Washington University's Medical Campus, the event...
📣 Newsflash: Dr. Michelle Oyen Leads Insightful Discussion on Digital Twins in Pregnancy at the Royal Society of Medicine Meeting
Healthcare Research, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

📣 Newsflash: Dr. Michelle Oyen Leads Insightful Discussion on Digital Twins in Pregnancy at the Royal Society of Medicine Meeting

Dr. Michelle Oyen (right) captivating the audience with her groundbreaking insights at the Royal Society of Medicine meeting, as she discusses digital twins in pregnancy. Seated on the left, Roger Highfield, absorbed in the wealth of knowledge being shared. Date: November 3, 2023 London, UK - In a captivating session at the Royal Society of Medicine meeting, Dr. Michelle Oyen took center stage to share her expertise on the groundbreaking concept of digital twins in pregnancy. Dr. Oyen, renowned for her work in biomechanics and women's health, delved into the intricacies of digital twin modeling, shedding light on its applications in pregnancy research. Notably, her pioneering work includes modeling C-section scars, exemplifying the potential of digital twins to revolutionize our und...
Oyen Lab Welcomes Innovative Phantoms
Healthcare Research, outreach, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology, Women's Health

Oyen Lab Welcomes Innovative Phantoms

Dr. Adrienne Scott expertly utilizes ultrasound technology to explore the intricacies of fetal development within the advanced phantom.Samantha Zambuto holds EpiLume.Samyuktha Kolluru, with precision and focus, employs ultrasound to unravel the mysteries within the innovative phantom. Date: October 20, 2023 St. Louis, MO - In a groundbreaking development, the Oyen Lab at Washington University has acquired state-of-the-art pregnancy phantoms, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the intricate world of maternal health research. These phantoms, meticulously crafted replicas of a pregnant woman's womb during the second trimester, aim to showcase the lab's pioneering work to the scientific community and the public. The centerpiece of these phantoms is a lifelike representation of a...
Oyen Lab Inspires High School Students with Fascinating Placental Science Outreach Event
events, outreach, Science and Technology

Oyen Lab Inspires High School Students with Fascinating Placental Science Outreach Event

Pattonville High School Biological Science Students Engage with Cutting-Edge Research "Samyuktha Kolluru (Right) demonstrating ultrasound on the hydrogel phantom containing water beads, heart, and star-shaped sponges while Adrienne Scott (left) observes attentively." Date: September 20, 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - In a remarkable outreach effort, the Oyen Lab at Washington University opened its doors to a group of eager young minds from Pattonville High School's Biological Science program. Dr. Adrienne Scott, a leading researcher in the lab, took the students on a captivating journey through the world of placental science, showcasing equipment and materials while engaging them with hands-on demonstrations that made complex concepts come to life. The visit began with Dr. Adrienn...
Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott Shine at IFPA Conference, Forge Key Connections for Innovative Research
Academic Achievements, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott Shine at IFPA Conference, Forge Key Connections for Innovative Research

Postdoctoral Scholars from Washington University Leave a Mark with Hydrogel and AI-Driven Placental Studies Adrienne Scott (right) captivating the audience, presenting her pioneering placental research to Anna David's husband (left) at the IFPA Conference.Samantha Zambuto proudly stands next to her IFPA Conference poster, showcasing innovative placental research.Anna David (Left) and Adrienne Scott (Right) Date: 11 September 2023 Rotorua, New Zealand - Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott, two brilliant Postdoctoral Scholars from Washington University, made waves at the recent International Federation of Placenta Association (IFPA) Conference in Rotorua, New Zealand. Their innovative research on hydrogels, AI, and placental health not only captivated the audience but also ...
Oyen Lab Enhances Research Capabilities with Cutting-Edge OCT Microscope from Thor Labs
Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Oyen Lab Enhances Research Capabilities with Cutting-Edge OCT Microscope from Thor Labs

Patrick Yang and Samyuktha Kolluru Spearhead Integration and Training with Thor Labs Expert Martin Thunert Date: 5 September 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - The Oyen Lab at Washington University has taken a significant leap forward in its research capabilities with the acquisition of a state-of-the-art Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Microscope generously provided by Thor Labs. Patrick Yang, the lab manager, and Samyuktha Kolluru, a dedicated PhD graduate student, have undertaken the task of setting up and mastering this cutting-edge technology under the guidance of Martin Thunert, an expert from Thor Labs. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a revolutionary imaging technique that provides high-resolution, non-invasive imaging of biological tissues. Its applications in medica...
Washington University’s Trailblazing Scholars Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott to Illuminate IFPA Conference in Rotorua
Academic Achievements, Research and Innovation, Science and Technology

Washington University’s Trailblazing Scholars Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott to Illuminate IFPA Conference in Rotorua

Samantha Zambuto and Adrienne Scott to Present Pioneering Work in Placental Health and Technology Integration Adrienne Scott (Left) and Samantha Zambuto (Right) preparing to leave for New ZealandAdrienne Scott (Left) and Samantha Zambuto (Right) being safe for their trip Date: 1 September 2023 St. Louis, Missouri - The International Federation of Placenta Association (IFPA) Conference, slated from September 5 to September 8, 2023, in scenic Rotorua, New Zealand, is on the horizon, and it promises to be an arena of groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of maternal and fetal health. Two distinguished scholars from Washington University, Dr. Samantha Zambuto and Dr. Adrienne Scott, are set to take center stage, sharing their innovative research that holds the potential to revoluti...