Andreas Korbmacher

Andreas Korbmacher is a German-born, American-based materials scientist and engineer renowned for his groundbreaking work in the fields of biomaterials, tissue engineering, and additive manufacturing. He holds the prestigious Robert Fischell Distinguished Professorship in Engineering Innovation at the University of Maryland, College Park, where he directs the Laboratory for Functional Biomaterials. His research focuses on developing advanced materials and fabrication methods for regenerative medicine and drug delivery applications. Korbmacher’s career trajectory reflects a deep commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and translational research. He received his Diploma in Physics from the University of Münster in Germany and subsequently earned a PhD in Physics from the same institution, focusing on the physics of thin films and nanostructures. This initial background in physics provided him with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles governing material behavior, a crucial asset for his future endeavors in materials science and engineering. Following his doctoral studies, Korbmacher transitioned to the field of biomaterials, recognizing the immense potential of applying physics principles to solve pressing challenges in healthcare. He pursued postdoctoral research at the renowned Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research in Mainz, Germany, where he gained expertise in polymer chemistry and biomaterial synthesis. This experience solidified his interest in creating biocompatible materials that could interact with biological systems at the cellular and molecular levels. Since joining the University of Maryland, Korbmacher has built a highly productive and influential research program. His lab is at the forefront of developing novel biomaterials with precisely tailored properties for specific biomedical applications. A significant area of focus is the development of biodegradable polymers for controlled drug release and tissue scaffolding. Korbmacher and his team have pioneered innovative approaches to synthesize and characterize these materials, ensuring their biocompatibility, mechanical integrity, and controlled degradation kinetics. He is a pioneer in the application of additive manufacturing, often referred to as 3D printing, to create complex and customized biomaterials. His work involves developing new 3D printing techniques and materials that can be used to fabricate patient-specific implants, scaffolds for tissue regeneration, and devices for drug delivery. This includes working with bioinks—printable materials containing cells and biomolecules—to create functional tissues and organs in vitro. Korbmacher’s research is characterized by a strong emphasis on translational potential. He actively collaborates with clinicians and industry partners to translate his laboratory findings into real-world solutions for patients. His inventions have led to several patents and the formation of startup companies aimed at commercializing his innovative technologies. Beyond his research contributions, Korbmacher is a dedicated educator and mentor. He teaches courses in biomaterials, tissue engineering, and additive manufacturing, inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists. He actively supports the development of young researchers in his lab, providing them with opportunities to gain hands-on experience and contribute to cutting-edge research. In recognition of his significant contributions, Korbmacher has received numerous awards and accolades. He is a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE) and a recipient of the NSF CAREER Award, highlighting his exceptional contributions to research and education. Andreas Korbmacher’s work continues to push the boundaries of biomaterials science and engineering, paving the way for innovative therapies and improved patient outcomes.