Smart Biomaterials for Modulation of the Immune Response towards Regenerative Wound Healing
Entrepreneurial PhD
Michaela graduated from the University of Queensland in December 2020 with a Bachelor of Chemical and Biological Engineering (Honours), during which she undertook a long-term exchange at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the United States of America.
Michaela’s drive to push back the frontiers of science and medicine, combined with motivation to create positive impact on people and society, led her to a PhD at the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology.
She commenced her PhD project in July 2021 under the supervision of Professor Alan Rowan and Dr Amanda Kijas, which focuses on design of smart biomaterials for modulating immune response during wound healing. She works in collaboration with the Burns, Skin and Wounds team, led by Dr Jason Brown at Herston Biofabrications Institute within the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital, as well as Professor David Hume from the Translational Research Institute.
Michaela is a recipient of the UQ Graduate School Research Training Program Scholarship and is honoured to be an AIBN Entrepreneurial Scholar. Michaela was also nominated as president of the AIBN Student Association for 2023. She is excited to partner with the Liveris Academy and the opportunity this offers to meet like-minded individuals and develop transferable skills across many areas.
Outside of her PhD, Michaela enjoys competing in triathlon and has a great love of the outdoors and travel. She is also passionate about her volunteer work with Orange Sky Laundry and Engineers without Borders. In recognition of her commitment and passion for these activities, she was recently awarded the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
