Stefanie A. Sydlik, PhD

Assistant Professor, Chemistry / Biomedical Engineering
Carnegie Mellon University

Research Interests

The overarching goal of research in the Sydlik group is to develop chemical methods to improve the biological healing response of traumatic bone injury, improving patient quality of life. This research leverages organic chemistry to synthesize materials that activate pathways to instruct bone regeneration, filling a void at the interface of engineering and medicine. Specifically, we use two platforms materials: functional graphenic materials (FGMs) and polymers. These materials direct the healing process using two complementary pathways: covalent controlled release through labile bonds designed to react with water to release bioactive moieties in vivo, and instructive surfaces with permanent covalent bonds that anchor instructive molecules at the critical biomaterial interface.