By leveraging principle of material science and organic chemistry, we develop dynamic hydrogel-based biomaterials, and apply them to understand cell-biomaterial interactions, build disease models and improve ocular regeneration through the delivery of biotherapeutics and stimuli-responsive biomaterials. Our research program stands out through the integration of three key elements, fostering a highly innovative approach: (1) Expertise in engineering hydrogel biomaterials from molecular to micro-scale. (2) Expertise in evaluating cell-biomaterial interactions, and (3) Unique focus on leveraging mechano-transduction and immune-modulation to enhance ocular regeneration.

This research trajectory builds upon Dr Rizwan’s doctoral work in hydrogel biomaterials for corneal tissue engineering (Evelyn Yim Lab) and award-winning postdoctoral work in University of Toronto on the development of photo-tunable hydrogels for 3D cell culture (Molly Shoichet Lab).