The School of Biomedical Engineering is pleased to welcome Dr. Sarah Hedtrich to our faculty as an Associate Professor. Dr. Hedtrich’s lab employs complex bioengineered human (disease) models to significantly advance the understanding of the manifestation, progression, and treatment of inflammatory and genetic diseases of human epithelia, with a focus on the skin, lungs and intestine.
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Hertrich to our team,” comments Dr. Peter Zandstra, “she is an internationally recognized researcher and the therapies she is developing in her lab will surely impact patient health and help fuel the life sciences sector in BC.”
“I’m excited about the research that happens in my lab because it has meaningful outcomes for patients and could have a positive impact on their lives,” comments Dr. Hedtrich.
Dr. Hedtrich’s interest in human-based organ-on-chip models was sparked in Berlin while completing her PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences. She was introduced to the concept of these models in relation to challenges in translating therapies from bench-to-bedside. This concept became the inspiration for her very accomplished career. Her current lab relies almost exclusively on complex human-based organ- and organ-on-chip (OoC) models that identify the underlying causes of disease and then to develop next-generation therapies with a focus on gene therapy to treat them.
“The School of Biomedical Engineering is a nucleus for new ideas, initiatives and research. It is a collaborative school, and the links to biology, medicine and engineering are a natural fit for my research.” comments Dr. Hedtrich.
She was drawn to move her lab from Germany to Vancouver because of the unique and interdisciplinary nature of the school and the opportunity to accelerate the translational aspect of her research. Being able to do her research surrounded by the beautiful scenery in Vancouver and kind people has been a huge bonus. In her spare time, she looks forward to exploring nature, hiking and trying out the different cuisines the city has to offer.