NSF East Asia and Pacific Summer Institute for FY 2012 in New Zealand

Harmon Matthew D, Manchester CT

Investigators

Abstract

This action funds Matthew David Harmon of the University of Connecticut to conduct a research project, entitled "Developing a novel polymer design for human spine regeneration,", during the summer of 2012 at the University of Otago Chrsitchurch in Christchurch City, Canterbury, New Zealand. The host scientist's name is Dr. Timothy Woodfield. The intellectual merit of this proposal addresses the delicate balance of material mechanical performance and biological performance by the design of a polymer scaffold for human spine tissue engineering. By combining a previously optimized polymer gel with a novel polymer rubber the research attempts to create an original scaffold design which meets both mechanical and biological cellular requirements. The Broader Impacts of an EAPSI fellowship include providing the Fellow a first-hand research experience outside the U.S.; an introduction to the science, science policy, and scientific infrastructure of the respective location; and an orientation to the society, culture and language. These activities meet the NSF goal to educate for international collaborations early in the career of its scientists, engineers, and educators, thus ensuring a globally aware U.S. scientific workforce.