We are thrilled to announce that undergraduate student Hoda Gendya has been awarded the top honor at the NIHR Surgical MedTech Co-Operative poster competition, hosted by the IMechE in London. Her exceptional research poster titled “A Novel Method for the Synthesis and Fabrication of 3D Printed Chitosan Based Hydrogels” stood out amongst a field of formidable contenders, earning her a well-deserved cash prize.
Hoda’s poster dives deep into the innovative realm of 3D printing using chitosan-based hydrogels. Chitosan, derived from the exoskeletons of crustaceans, possesses intrinsic properties that make it highly sought-after in biomedical applications. It is biocompatible, biodegradable, and has unique abilities to respond to external stimuli like pH, temperature, and UV light.
Her research specifically highlights the formulation and 3D printing of these hydrogels using a method that is efficient and cost-effective. By incorporating polyethylene fibers into the mix, Hoda was able to reinforce the hydrogel structure, enhance its mechanical properties, and ensure a smoother print quality.
But the applications of this work go beyond just fabrication. The hydrogels’ swelling behavior, as indicated in her findings, suggests promising potential in drug delivery systems. Their compressive strength, on the other hand, points to their suitability for cartilage replacement or even tissue engineering.
Under the guidance of Professor Michael Bryant and mentored by PhD student Robert Elkington, Hoda’s research has blazed a trail for future work in the domain of medical engineering. Her findings, especially in the realm of biotribology, are poised to transform the way we perceive joint replacement materials and their capacity to mimic and support natural cartilage function.
We wish to extend our heartiest congratulations to Hoda Gendya for her monumental achievement. Her dedication, meticulous research, and innovative spirit are an inspiration to budding researchers and seasoned professionals alike. We eagerly anticipate the continued contributions she will make to the realm of medical engineering and beyond.
Well done, Hoda!