Katya is a PhD candidate in Biomedical Engineering. She is focused on developing a small-diameter vascular graft using the D-PHI platform, upon which adipose stem cell-derived vascular smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells and monocytes will be co-cultured and conditioned. Her past experiences include research in ophthalmic drug and cell delivery as well as process engineering work in a Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. In 2018, she received her BASc in Chemical and Bioengineering at McMaster University. In her spare time, she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen with new cuisines, volunteering for local organizations and travelling.
Contact: katya.dcosta@mail.utoronto.ca
Michael is a postdoctoral fellow in the Santerre lab. He completed his PhD in Materials Science at Trent University where he developed sustainably derived antimicrobial polymers and energy storage materials. Michael’s research background and interests include the synthesis of novel polymers, polymer/nanocomposites and dental materials. His current research is focused on developing a bioinspired adhesive to repair damaged bones.
Contact: michael.floros(at)utoronto.ca