Materials Science and Engineering for Biomedical Innovations: A Talk by Fulbright Scholar Mario Milazzo

The field of biomedical engineering is witnessing groundbreaking advancements, thanks to innovations in materials science and engineering. Mario Milazzo, Ph.D., a visiting Fulbright scholar from the University of Pisa, will deliver a talk titled “Materials Science and Engineering for Biomedical Applications” at 6 p.m., Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in McNulty Hall, Room 101. All students and University community members are invited and encouraged to attend.
 
Milazzo, who is visiting within the Department of Physics this semester, will share his multidisciplinary approach to the development of advanced materials for use in modern medicine. Specifically, the seminar will focus on integrating materials synthesis, structural characterization and biological assessments to develop innovative solutions for tissue replacement and regeneration.
  
During the talk, Milazzo will explore biomimetic scaffolds integrated with human mesenchymal stem cells for tympanic membrane reconstruction. These advanced scaffolds not only improve biointegration, but also enhance mechanical performance, offering new possibilities for treating hearing impairments. Additionally, he will present innovative designs for ossicular replacement prostheses aimed at improving acoustic functionality and tissue compatibility.
 
In the realm of bone tissue engineering, Milazzo will further detail pioneering work on piezoelectric nanocomposites composed of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and barium titanate (BaTiO₃). These materials, which exhibit enhanced mechanical properties and bioelectric responses, hold great promise for mimicking natural bone function and promoting regeneration.
 
Another remarkable area of exploration will be ophthalmology, where Milazzo will talk about a current project focused on developing biocompatible, 3D-printed contact lenses—which could serve as a alternative to traditional amniotic membrane applications, that are used to promote healing and reduce inflammation in various eye conditions.
 
A recipient of the prestigious Marie Skłodowska Curie fellowship, Milazzo has collaborated with leading institutions like MIT, the University of Antwerp, and Massachusetts Eye & Ear. His work has been widely published, with more than 60 international contributions, four book chapters and multiple patents. His ongoing research at Seton Hall, supported by his Fulbright scholarship, focuses on nanocomposite materials.
 
For more information about the event, please contact Associate Professor Weining Wang, at [email protected].  

Categories: Health and Medicine