Cato T. Laurencin

University Professor

Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery
Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Professor of Materials Science and Engineering
Professor of Biomedical Engineering Center for Resilient Materials and Systems

Director, The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center for Biomedical, Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences

Chief Executive Officer, The Connecticut Convergence Institute for Translation in Regenerative Engineering

The University of Connecticut

Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at 8:30-9:30 AM
Innovation Room, The Convergence Center

"Regenerative Engineering: Chemistry and Materials Science in Regeneration"

Abstract: We define the field of Regenerative Engineering 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. Work in the area of musculoskeletal tissue regeneration has focused on a number of technologies. Polymeric nanofiber systems create the prospect for biomimetics that recapitulate connective tissue ultrastructure allowing for the design of biomechanically functional matrices, and next generation matrices that create a niche for stem cell activity. Polymer and polymer-ceramic systems can be utilized for the regeneration of bone. Through the use of inducerons, small molecules fostering induction, the design of regeneration-inducing materials can be realized. Hybrid matrices possessing micro and nano architecture can create advantageous systems for regeneration, while the use of classic principles of chemistry, materials science, and engineering can lead to the development of three-dimensional systems suitable for functional regeneration of tissues. Work in the creation of synthetic artificial stem cells present prospects for joint restoration. Through convergence of a number of technologies, we believe the prospect of engaging future grand challenges is possible.

Cecilia R. Aragon

Professor, Director, Human-Centered Data Science Lab, Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle

Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at 8:30-9:30 AM
Innovation Room, The Convergence Center

"What Flying Upside Down Taught Me About Engineering and AI"

Abstract: In this talk, Cecilia Aragon describes her journey from extremely fearful daughter of immigrants to daredevil airshow pilot — and then to using supercomputers and human-centered artificial intelligence to solve some of the greatest mysteries of the universe. She'll present examples from a 30-year career in data science, artificial intelligence, and aviation and talk about how using math to face her fears enabled her to become the first Latina pilot on the US Unlimited Aerobatic Team. She scaffolded that courage to build a career in data science and AI, developing the new field of human-centered data science and becoming the first Latina to achieve the rank of Full Professor in the College of Engineering at the University of Washington in its 100-year history.