Sheetal Chowdhury

• Spearheaded synthesis of a novel polymeric coating for 3D cell culture models; achieved pivotal insights into obesity pathophysiology. • Led the development of RGD-modified elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) coatings for 3D spheroid culture, resulting in 95% retention of spheroid architecture and supporting novel ECM-derived adipogenesis insights. • Formulated ELP-PEI surface coatings that maintained organoid integrity and viability over a 56-day period, mimicking long-term adipose tissue modeling. Executed PCR, metabolic assays, and viability assays to assess drug candidate effects; identified compounds enhancing insulin resistance. • Isolated and cultured human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) from 5+ donor tissues; maintained 90% viability and differentiation efficiency across 10+ experiments, supporting consistent results in 3D spheroid development and drug response studies. • Engineered single-cell AFM force spectroscopy protocols (30+ trials) for quantifying cadherin-mediated cell adhesion; supported US Army ERDC grant on cell mechanobiology. • Collaborated with peers and senior researchers to conduct secondary research projects, as evidenced by executing 2 projects investigating the influence of surface chemistry on cell-biomaterial interaction via in vitro cell culture assays. • Managed lab operations, including maintenance of 10+ analytical instruments, supply inventory, and training of 17+ students, ensuring GLP compliance. • Awarded the AHA Predoctoral Fellowship ($67K+) for research in biomaterial-mediated insulin resistance and metabolic tissue modeling. • Analyzed complex research data; employed statistical analysis tools to interpret results; provided actionable insights, leading to a 30% increase in research efficiency and accuracy for ongoing and future projects.

• Led a study on shear stress effects in endothelial cells using the Ibidi fluidic pump, testing 5+ shear conditions over 48-144 hours. Analyzed morphology, protein profiling, and mRNA expression, identifying 3 key proteins modulated by shear stress. • Spearheaded the optimization of endothelial culture conditions by screening 6+ media formulations and supplements. Validated results through imaging, identifying 2 top-performing formulations that enhanced proliferation and barrier formation by 30%. • Collaborated cross-functionally with research teams on ex vivo lung recellularization studies, analyzing 10+ tissue samples and perfusate for flow-responsive gene and protein upregulation. Findings contributed to refining tissue engineering strategies. • Investigated endothelial cell behavior under flow using live imaging, capturing real-time responses over 48 hours and revealing critical mechanotransduction patterns. • Investigated VEGF loading in PLGA beads, analyzing how the release of VEGF influenced endothelial cell behavior and supported tissue regeneration. • Conducted co-culture studies using AIMs chip to study the behavior of endothelial cells in the presence of human lung fibroblasts (hLF), providing insights into cellular interactions and tissue remodeling.

• Managed zirconia-alumina bioceramic projects using 3D inkjet powder printing; led design and execution of process experiments; achieved a 25% boost in project efficiency, reducing material waste by 20% and enhancing print fidelity. • Engaged in hands-on experiments for surface coating and material characterization; contributed to a 15% enhancement in project outcomes, improving the mechanical properties of materials and extending the lifespan of 3D printed models by 30%. • Conducted extensive literature review on UHMWPE generations in joint arthroplasty; synthesized findings into a review paper published in a high-impact journal, influencing subsequent research direction, and cited over 10+ times, showcasing significant academic impact

Researched on 3D binderjet printing of glass ceramic. Conducted data analysis, mechanical testing, XRD, micro-CT, and various material characterization. Developed presentations for speaking at school and seminars.

Thesis: Surface Coatings for Long-Term 3D Culture of Adipocytes to Study Adipose Pathophysiology