Burdick

Bruce Kirkpatrick honored with Outstanding Dissertation Award

Susan Glairon — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 20:16:06 +0000

Bruce Kirkpatrick honored with Outstanding Dissertation Award Susan Glairon Wed, 11/26/2025 - 13:16

Susan Glairon

Bruce Kirkpatrick

PhD, Biological Engineering, 2025

Dissertation Name

Photochemical Control of Hydrogel Network Topology: Fundamentals to Cellular Applications

Defended

July, 29, 2025

Associated lab

Anseth Group

Current position

Third-year medical student at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Denver Health

College of Engineering and Applied Science Outstanding Dissertation Award

This award recognizes the best dissertation (excellence of research, topical importance and presentation in the written dissertation) among students completing PhD degree requirements during a calendar year.

Why did you choose CU Boulder for your graduate studies?

I came to CU in 2013 for my undergraduate degree in chemical and biological engineering (ChBE), and I really enjoyed it. After earning my BS in 2017, I applied to MD-PhD programs and was accepted at CU to continue into medical and graduate school. I was thrilled to return to ChBE as a graduate student because I knew how strong the biomedical research program was, especially with Distinguished Professor Kristi Anseth in the department. Having the chance to work with her and other faculty like Distinguished Professor Chris Bowman, Professor Jason Burdick and Professor Tim White offered the experiential learning in materials science and bioengineering that I hoped for as a budding physician-scientist. (Not to mention that it is great to live in Colorado! I’d be glad to never leave.)

Hydrogels can act as tiny scaffolds that let us create precise patterns or gradients in stiffness or biochemical cues (in this case, a Mona Lisa narrower than a human hair), giving us fine control over the environment that cells experience.

What does receiving this award mean to you?

It’s a huge honor to be selected by my mentors, department, and college.This award affirms that the years I’ve invested in both science and the community are valued. I’ve been part of the ChBE program for 12 years, and I’m grateful to have had the chance to do work worthy of this recognition. I owe a great deal to Dr. Anseth for her guidance and to my collaborators and mentees for giving so much of their time to bring our projects to fruition. I feel especially grateful to have grown my work in such a supportive and collaborative environment.

Tell me about your dissertation research.

Broadly, my research focuses on developing jello-like polymeric materials called hydrogels. I use light to build, break and rearrange the tiny chemical connections within them, which lets us control properties like stiffness, degradation, relaxation, and cell behavior with precise timing and location. This helps us create more tunable, lifelike environments for studying biology and developing future medical therapies.

What applications could this research have in the future?

This research supports technologies that enable long-acting or precisely timed drug and vaccine delivery, as well as protective hydrogels that shield donor cells from the immune system and improve their survival after transplantation. These materials can also be used to create acellular devices such as contact lenses, wound dressings, and tissue adhesives along with more realistic tissue models that give researchers better platforms for studying disease and testing new treatments.

Why do you think your dissertation resonated with the award committee?

I think the committee appreciated the range of questions my dissertation addressed and how

By adjusting the properties of a hydrogel around human cells embedded in 3D, we can dramatically change how the cells stretch, spread and connect to one another, helping us understand how their surroundings shape their behavior.

the work connected chemistry, materials science and biology in a coherent way. The projects included new approaches for designing photoresponsive hydrogels, studies of mechanobiology, and tissue engineering applications, with contributions that spanned departments, colleges, and campuses across CU. I think the committee also recognized how deeply collaborative the work was. Rather than solving a single problem, my thesis points toward a variety of future applications, so its impact comes from its breadth and the way it supports a wide range of community efforts.

Why does this research topic interest you?

This field naturally combines my interests in photochemistry, dynamic chemistry, and polymers with biophysics and materials science. Hydrogels are programmable, biologically relevant platforms, so the work is both scientifically rich and clinically useful.

Who was particularly influential to your work?

Dr. Anseth was the most influential figure in my scientific training. Her intellectual brilliance, generosity with her time, and ability to connect fundamental chemistry with meaningful biological questions have shaped the way I think about research. I’ve also learned a tremendous amount from her former trainees, many of whom now lead their own groups. I was especially inspired by Professor Cole DeForest, Associate Professor Mark Tibbitt, Professor Jason Burdick, Professor April Kloxin, and Tobin Brown’s work, to name a few. My amazing collaborators and mentees were essential to the success of every project and working alongside them is what made the science rewarding.

What’s next?

I plan to apply for residency in radiation oncology. I’m excited to work as a physician-scientist with interests in materials science and photochemistry, and my goal is to build a career that bridges the clinical care of cancer patients with research on biomaterials, imaging and analysis tools, and light-based technologies. I ultimately hope to contribute to new treatment strategies that are more tolerable, precise, and effective.

Chemical and Biological Engineering PhD Student Bruce Kirkpatrick was honored with the 2025 Outstanding Dissertation Award. His hydrogel research supports technologies that enable 3D cell culture for tissue engineering and disease modeling, as well as acellular biomaterials for applications like controlled release of drugs or vaccines.

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Three ChBE professors on Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers 2025 list

Susan Glairon — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 21:19:34 +0000

Three ChBE professors on Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers 2025 list Susan Glairon Tue, 11/25/2025 - 14:19

Three Chemical and Biological Engineering professors, Jason A. Burdick, Michael D. McGehee and Michael F. Toney were featured among highly cited researchers in 2025.

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Arianna McCarty reaches new heights with Astronaut Scholarship

Susan Glairon — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 22:03:19 +0000

Arianna McCarty reaches new heights with Astronaut Scholarship Susan Glairon Tue, 11/04/2025 - 15:03

Susan Glairon

Arianna McCarty, a chemical and biological engineering senior, has distinguished herself through a remarkable combination of three top academic and research achievements.

Most recently McCarty received the 2025 scholarship from the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF), an organization founded by the Mercury 7 astronauts and supported by successive generations of NASA astronauts. She previously earned the Boettcher Scholarship, fully funding her for four years of undergraduate study at a Colorado university, as well as the Goldwater Scholarship, awarded to sophomores and juniors actively conducting research in mathematics, science and engineering.

Astronaut scholars are awarded up to $15,000 per year for education-related expenses and may be awarded for up to two years of undergraduate work. The merit-based ASF scholarship is the largest known monetary award of its kind given in the United States to science and engineering undergraduate students.

What does this newest award mean to you?

Receiving the astronaut scholarship has been one of the most meaningful honors of my academic journey because it recognizes my technical and research accomplishments and connects me to an extraordinary community. The other astronaut scholars are some of the most inspiring, passionate and driven people I’ve ever met, and many have become close friends.

What research have you been involved in?

My research journey began in high school, when I worked with the Layer Lab at the BioFrontiers Institute to study computational genomics. Later, thanks to the support of the Boettcher Foundation, I joined The Clark Lab at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, where I explored the respiratory microbiome and investigated how native bacteria in the respiratory tract can protect against pathogens. Most recently, I joined the Burdick Biomaterials and Biofabrication Laboratory in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering (ChBE) through the Young Scholars Summer Research Program led by Distinguished Professor Robert Davis.

If you go

What: Meet astronaut Joe Tanner, a four-time astronaut who flew aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis, Discovery, Endeavour and Atlantis again.

Arianna McCarty, a chemical and biological engineering senior, will be honored as an astronaut scholar at this event.

When: Thursday, Nov. 6, 4:30 p.m.

Where: UMC 386 (Aspen Room)

Register for the event

My work focuses on engineering heart tissues to model focal cardiac fibrosis, a condition in which the heart wall stiffens, impairing cardiac function and potentially leading to heart failure. By replicating this disease in the lab, we aim to better understand its mechanisms and evaluate potential therapeutics to advance treatment options.

Which organizations, clubs or volunteer work are you engaged in?

As a course assistant for multiple core ChBE courses, I work to make challenging material more accessible, developing recitations and creating custom practice resources to support student success. I also serve as a peer ambassador for the department, collaborating with faculty to enhance courses and expand departmental programming. Beyond engineering, I find balance performing in theatrical productions, playing a variety of instruments and authoring a collection of haiku. I also stay engaged through the Boettcher Foundation, a philanthropic foundation dedicated to strengthening Colorado by fostering the potential of its residents.

What accomplishment are you most proud of academically?

I'm most proud of my growth as a scientist, learning to ask the right questions and design research aimed at real-world impact. From studying the respiratory microbiome to engineering heart tissues, I've developed both the technical skills and scientific curiosity to contribute meaningfully to human health.

What has been your biggest challenge during your engineering education?

One of the biggest challenges in my engineering education has been learning to say “no.” I’ve always been deeply curious and eager to take on new opportunities. But, I’ve come to understand time as the most valuable resource, and how we choose to spend it defines the quality of our work and growth.

Arianna McCarty presenting her research at the 2024 American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) annual meeting in San Diego.

What’s next?

I'm applying to PhD programs in bioengineering, with a focus on research at the intersection of tissue engineering and immunoengineering. I am particularly interested in exploring how the immune system and other biological systems, such as the microbiome, can be leveraged to support wound healing and tissue regeneration. Ultimately, I hope to become a professor at an R1 research university, where I can lead a lab pursuing novel research in this area and continue mentoring students—a role I’ve come to deeply enjoy through my experiences as a course assistant.

Anything else you would like to add or share?

I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has supported and believed in me along the way. In particular, I want to thank Kenneth M. Monks, PhD, Assistant Professor Ryan Layer, Assistant Professor Sarah Clark, Professor Jason Burdick and my brother, Bryan. Their trust, mentorship and encouragement have meant more to me than words can express.

Arianna McCarty, a chemical and biological engineering senior, has distinguished herself through a remarkable combination of academic and research excellence, earning the Astronaut, Boettcher and Goldwater scholarships. Her research spans computational genomics, the respiratory microbiome and tissue engineering aimed at improving heart health.

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Jason Burdick elected to National Academy of Medicine

Susan Glairon — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 22:31:46 +0000

Jason Burdick elected to National Academy of Medicine Susan Glairon Tue, 10/22/2024 - 16:31

Bowman Endowed Professor Jason Burdick of the BioFrontiers Institute and the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine.

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A Band-Aid for the heart? New 3D printing method makes this, and much more, possible

Anonymous — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 15:19:49 +0000

A Band-Aid for the heart? New 3D printing method makes this, and much more, possible Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:19

Scientists face a challenge in creating life-like materials to replace human tissues, which are both strong and stretchable. A CU Boulder-led team, including Professor Jason Burdick, has developed a 3D-printing method to create materials that are elastic enough for a beating heart, tough enough for joints, and easily shaped to fit a patient's unique needs.

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CU Boulder receives $1M grant to advance biofabrication training for PhD students

Anonymous — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 22:42:38 +0000

CU Boulder receives $1M grant to advance biofabrication training for PhD students Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 07/15/2024 - 16:42

CU Boulder's Materials Science and Engineering Program received a $1M grant to fund doctoral research training in biofabrication, a field that enables precise and effective ways to study and treat medical conditions, such as growing new organs or repairing damaged tissues.

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Alumnus Burdick to join faculty as Bowman Endowed Professor

Anonymous — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 18:11:17 +0000

Alumnus Burdick to join faculty as Bowman Endowed Professor Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 09/20/2021 - 12:11

Jonathan Raab

Bowman Endowed Professor Jason Burdick

Alumnus Jason Burdick (PhDChemEngr’02) will return as faculty early next year, becoming the first Bowman Endowed Professor.

“I have great memories from my time as a graduate student at CU Boulder, from interactions with my peers and mentors to exploring the Rocky Mountains,” Burdick said. “I learned to be a researcher here and found my passion for mentoring students. It is really fantastic to be returning.”

While earning his PhD, Burdick studied under Distinguished Professor Kristi Anseth. He has since kept in contact with his former mentor, as well as with faculty who provided support and guidance to him, including Professor Stephanie Bryant and Distinguished Professor Christopher Bowman.

“Kristi has remained a fantastic mentor during my years at the University of Pennsylvania and we have kept in touch about potential opportunities back in Boulder,” Burdick said. “It has been really great to follow the developments at CU Boulder in the last decade, including the hiring of many great faculty and the initiation of new programs and infrastructure such as the BioFrontiers Institute and connections to the CU Anschutz campus.”

As the first Bowman Endowed Professor, Burdick’s hire was made possible through the establishment of the Barbara, Cheryl and Clair Bowman Endowment. Professor Bowman, CU Boulder and the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering formed the endowment through a portion of their shared royalties from a polymeric dental technology patent licensed to 3M.

“The Bowman Endowment was established to enable us to bring world-class educators and researchers like Jason here to CU Boulder,” said Department Chair and Professor Will Medlin. “The fact that Jason is an alumnus with a longstanding and deep connection to the department makes him an especially fitting holder of the Bowman Professorship, which was so generously funded by the Bowman family. The endowment will bring immediate and long-term positive impacts for our students and faculty alike.”

Burdick’s primary research field is biomaterials, which his group designs for therapeutic applications or as tissue models to better understand biological questions and for the screening of new drugs.

“We apply the fundamentals of materials science to design biomaterials with new properties,” Burdick said. “We are very interested in the translation of technology developed in the laboratory into new products, including therapeutic biomaterials.”

His research group has focused on biofabrication — 3D bioprinting — in recent years, he said. They have been using automated tools to process biomaterials and cells into desired configurations.

Burdick will primarily work within the BioFrontiers Institute and is also exploring opportunities with the Materials Science and Engineering Program for student recruitment and research opportunities.

When he begins at CU Boulder in January 2022, Burdick hopes to recruit graduate students who are excited about leveraging innovative materials design for the development of new materials for medicine.

“Students may come from scientific backgrounds that range from materials science to chemical engineering to biology,” he said. “I am very interested in recruiting a diverse laboratory where our differences — gender, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation — are embraced and encouraged to make our science even better.”

With family in the surrounding states, and the draw of Colorado’s ski season and hiking trails, Burdick is excited to be returning to Boulder and its namesake university.

“Although both have changed quite a bit since I was here as a graduate student, it feels like a bit of a homecoming,” he said. “I look forward to reconnecting with previous friends and colleagues and meeting many new faculty and students in the upcoming years.”

Alumnus Jason Burdick (PhDChemEngr’02) will return as faculty early next year, becoming the first Bowman Endowed Professor.

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