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Thursday 12 October 2017 9:00am

Creativity and collaboration are hallmarks of Associate Professor Tim Woodfield's research career. He innovated a computer interface for translating CT scans into patient-specific porous implants using the (then) fledgling discipline of 3D-bioprinting. This opened up possibilities for customizable, mechanically-robust treatment options that could be seeded with a patient's own healing fluids and cells, helping to 'instruct' the body to self-repair. His early work is considered foundational by leading researchers of additive manufacturing and biofabrication internationally.

Today Woodfield leads an interdisciplinary team of researchers called the Christchurch Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering (CReaTE) research group. The University of Otago, Christchurch group works closely with Canterbury DHB orthopaedic surgeons. CReaTE investigates stem cell and biomaterial-based strategies to develop biomaterial scaffolds, new orthopaedic medical devices and cell-based therapies. They use 3D bioprinting technologies, explore bio-ink developments, and advances in 3D tissue culture models.

Woodfield has developed a 3-day introductory 3D Printing in Medicine course for the local medical community. It will run November 20 to 22 in Christchurch and include talks by international and national experts.

Visit www.otago.ac.nz/3dprintmedicine to find out more or register.

Associate Professor Tim Woodfield discusses bioprinting at the University of Otago, Christchurch 2017 ShowcaseAssociate Professor Tim Woodfield discusses bioprinting at the University of Otago, Christchurch's recent open day.

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