In the realm of biomedical engineering, Akhilesh Gaharwar stands as a beacon of innovation, making significant strides in the understanding of cell-nanomaterial interactions and advancing nanoengineered strategies for tissue repair and regeneration.
Born on January 3, 1982, in Nagpur, India, Gaharwar currently serves as an assistant professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Texas A&M University.
Education and Professional Journey of Akhilesh Gaharwar
Gaharwar’s academic journey is as remarkable as his contributions to science. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, followed by a Master’s in Technology (M.Tech.) from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. His pursuit of knowledge led him to complete a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University.
To further hone his expertise, Akhilesh Gaharwar embarked on postdoctoral training under the mentorship of renowned scientists, including Robert Langer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Ali Khademhosseini at Harvard University.
These experiences enriched his interdisciplinary approach, spanning materials science, chemistry, biology, and the engineering of polymeric biomaterials and nanocomposites.
Revolutionizing Tissue Engineering
Akhilesh Gaharwar’s research program is a testament to his commitment to addressing challenges in regenerative medicine. He focuses on integrating nanomaterials and stem cells to develop functional tissue engineering solutions. His work leverages principles from biomedical engineering, materials science, bioprinting, microfabrication, chemistry, and stem cell biology in unique ways.
The “Inspired Nanomaterials and Tissue Engineering (iNanoTE) Laboratory” at Texas A&M University, led by Gaharwar, is at the forefront of designing and developing biomimetic nanostructures.
These structures mimic native tissue interfaces, exhibiting gradients in physical and chemical properties. The lab utilizes advanced micro- and nano-fabrication technologies to replicate native tissue architecture and directs stem cell behavior for the creation of regionalized tissue constructs in vitro and in vivo.
A Prolific Scholar
Gaharwar’s impact extends beyond the laboratory, evident in his prolific publication record. With over 140 journal articles, two-issued/pending patents, and more than 100 conference presentations, he has become a respected authority in the field.
His contributions have been recognized globally, with a remarkable H-index of 70. Notably, he also edited the biomedical textbook, “Nanomaterials in Tissue Engineering: Fabrication and Applications.”
Awards and Recognitions
Gaharwar’s groundbreaking research has garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious NIH New Innovator Award (DP2), the Texas A&M University President Impact Fellow title, and the Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering (CMBE) Rising Star Award.
His achievements include being named a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE), an honor reserved for the top 2% biomedical engineers globally, before the age of 40.
Recent Achievements
In 2023, Akhilesh Gaharwar was honored as a Fellow of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and became a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI).
In 2022, Akhilesh Gaharwar was recognized as a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE). These accolades join a long list of achievements, including the Texas A&M University Presidential Impact Fellow in 2021 and the NIH Director’s New Innovator Award in 2017.
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