Wang Lab

Dr. Wang’s research focuses on developing innovative tools, technologies, and therapeutics that combine stem cell engineering and biomaterial engineering to promote tissue regeneration. The Wang Group engineers and develops stem cells, stem cell derivatives and biomaterial-based scaffolds for the treatment of surgical diseases. Our research interests include (1) engineering stem cells and stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EV) for tissue regeneration and targeted delivery, and developing instructive biomaterial scaffolds that mimic native extracellular matrices (ECM) for stem cell culture, expansion, delivery, and recruitment; (2) establishing and using experimental and naturally-occurring disease models to evaluate the function of novel regenerative therapeutics, such as cell, EV and ECM products; and (3) conducting investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies, clinical trials in both companion animal and human patients, and academic entrepreneurship and commercialization. 

Contributions to Diversity:

Dr. Wang's laboratory recognizes there are barriers that certain groups face when pursuing careers in the scientific field. Therefore, in Dr. Wang's lab, many students and mentees from underrepresented groups, including women, minorities, and people with disabilities are employed in the laboratory, and Dr. Wang actively seeks out diverse candidates when recruiting new lab members. Additionally, the lab has been hosting numerous visiting scholars from Asia and Europe. Dr. Wang acts as a mentor to all lab members and works with them to ensure their experiences in the scientific field are positive and productive. All of the lab members are given equal opportunities, and many of them have taken the lead on important research projects, co-authored papers, and given presentations at national and international conferences.