We are delighted to introduce the Scientific Committee for the International Conference on Implants:
Sylwia Rodziewicz-Motowidło, University of Gdańsk - Chair of the Scientific Committee
Prof. Sylwia Rodziewicz-Motowidło is a full professor and head of the Department of Biomedical Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk. She has been affiliated with the University of Gdańsk throughout her academic career. Her research focuses on the structure-activity relationships of bioactive peptides and peptidomimetics. In recent years, she has also been engaged in the design, synthesis, and study of peptides with pro-regenerative properties for applications in skin, cartilage, and bone regeneration. Her expertise extends to developing novel peptide scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. She has authored 97 original research papers (h-index = 21) and has received numerous awards for her scientific achievements, including distinctions from the Foundation for Polish Science (FNP) and L’ORÉAL. She has completed a research fellowship at Cornell University (Ithaca, USA).
Karine Anselme, Haute-Alsace University
Karine ANSELME is CNRS senior research director at the Institute of Materials Science of Mulhouse (France). Her research is focused on understanding the biological mechanisms involved in biointerfaces, optimising new biomaterials and developing new materials/processes for applications in biology. She is interested more particularly in understanding how cells sense and respond to topographical signals present on the material. She combines biology and material science to address fundamental biological questions in mechanobiology and to develop new applications for translational medicine both in orthopaedic and aesthetic surgery. She has co-authored 140+ publications (9700+ citations, h-index 45) and she delivered 30+ invited lectures.
Carmen Evora, La Laguna University
Carmen Evora, PhD Pharmacy, is professor of Pharmaceutical Technology at the Department of Chemical Engineering and Pharmaceutical Technology at La Laguna University, in Spain. Senior scientist at the Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas at the University of La Laguna. Her scientific career has focused on the development and characterization of Drug Delivery Systems. Specifically, in the last 20 years, she has worked on the development of these biodegradable or osteointegrable systems with the aim of acting both as controllers of the release of active substances and as a guide/support for the regeneration of critical bone defects. More recently and in parallel, Dr. Evora's group has entered the field of nanomedicine by developing lipid-polymeric nanoparticles targeting bone tissue for the treatment of osteoporosis. She is a member of the Controlled Release Society (CRS) and was president of the Spanish-Portuguese Local Chapter of the CRS for the period 2020-2022.
Hsu-Wei Fang, National Taipei University of Technology
Dr. Hsu-Wei Fang, professor of chemical engineering and biotechnology at National Taipei University of Technology. He is also a joint appointed researcher at National Health Research Institutes of Taiwan. Prof. Fang obtained his MS and PhD from University of Maryland. Prof. Fang is dedicated to the rapid commercialization of medical devices and building up the ecosystem of the innovative biotechnologies. Prof. Fang is focusing on market-demand oriented research activities. His research topics include bio-tribology, biomaterials, tissue engineering and medical device development. Prof. Fang has been awarded Mr. Wu-Ta-Yu award, which recognizes the best young scientist in Taiwan, and innovative award from Minister of Economic Affairs of Taiwan. Prof. Fang has passions on the research integration and development and he is devoted himself to the scaling up the value of biotechnology innovations.
Uwe Gbureck, University of Würzburg
Uwe Gbureck is a professor in the Department or Functional Materials in Medicine and Dentistry, University of Würzburg. He earned a PhD degree in chemistry from the University of Würzburg in 1999 about the synthesis of organically modified titanium oxide coatings as coupling agents for hydrolysis resistant metal-polymer joints in dental applications. Afterwards, he investigated the use of injectable mineral biocements as bone replacement materials for low load bearing defect sites within his “Habilitation” thesis in 2005 and was later on appointed as “Priv.-Doz.” (2005) and “Apl.-Prof.” for Experimental Dentistry at the University Hospital Würzburg. His work is currently focused on the development and characterisation of low-temperature setting calcium and magnesium phosphate cements and bone adhesives, additive manufacturing of patient specific implants and scaffolds, drug delivery with such porous ceramics and investigation of their in vitro and in vivo properties.
Justyna Kozłowska, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń
Dr. hab. Justyna Kozłowska, prof. UMK is an academic teacher and researcher, Professor at Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, specializing in biomaterials and advanced carriers for drugs and active substances, strongly focusing on personalized solutions. Her research also encompasses the development of innovative dermatological formulations. Author of numerous scientific publications, conference presentations, and research projects. She is also a co-partner of the NatChemLab spin-off company, which develops advanced chemical technologies and translates research into practical, commercial applications.
Jerzy Małachowski, Military University of Technology in Warsaw
Prof. Jerzy Małachowski, PhD, Eng. is a graduate of the Military University of Technology in Warsaw. He was awarded the title of professor in technical sciences in 2019. His research interests focus on three main areas: the development of methods for testing materials and structures, the development of computer testing methods and simulation analyses in issues related to security and defence, and the development of testing methods in issues related to biomedical engineering. The professor has managed numerous research projects and participated as a contractor in over 30 such projects financed by, among others, the National Science Center (NCN), the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR), the EU (FP6, FP7, and Horizon 2020), the European Defence Agency (EDA) and Science for Peace and Security (SPS-NATO). Recently, the Professor has held and holds positions on the boards of 5 institutions (IPPT PAN, WIM WAT and WIM-PIB, ILot-Sieć Łukasiewicz and OBRUM Gliwice). He has been a member of scientific committees of more than 50 national and international conferences. Prof. Jerzy Małachowski regularly reviews numerous scientific articles in JCR-listed journals (he has reviewed for over 90 journals). He was a member of the committee in over 70 promotion procedures. In the 2024-2027 term, he is a member of the National Council of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He has supervised nine doctoral students. Prof. Jerzy Małachowski has published over 650 publications including scientific articles, conference papers, book chapters, and monographs. He is a scholarship holder of the NATO Fellowship Program and the US Research Council, thanks to which he was able to complete research internships at Florida State University (USA) and Indiana State University (USA).
Diego Mantovani, Laval University
Diego Mantovani, PhD Ing. is the Holder of the Canada Research Chair Tier I in Biomaterials and Bioengineering for the Innovation in Surgery (2012-2026), professor at the Department of Materials Engineering at Laval University, senior scientist at the Division of Regenerative Medicine of the Research Center of the CHU de Québec, Diego Mantovani is a recognised specialist in biomaterials. With his team, he works on surface modifications, degradable metals and advanced in vitro testing for the next generation of implants and surgical therapies for reparative and regenerative medicine. He was Executive Co-Chair of the 10th World Biomaterials Congress 2016. He is advisor of three medical devices consortium in the Americas, Asia and Europe.
Endzhe Matykina, Complutense University of Madrid
Dr. Endzhe Matykina, CSc. PhD, is an Associate Professor at Complutense University of Madrid, Spain. She has been active in research since 1999, specializing in surface engineering and corrosion of light and valve alloys (Ti, Mg, Al, Zr), steels and metal matrix composites with special focus on applications for biomedical devices. Her particular interests lie in chemical and electrochemical surface modification techniques, functionalization and biodegradation of materials obtained by conventional processing and additive manufacturing for temporary and permanent impants. Dr. Matykina has published over 140 research articles in peer-reviewed international journals of high impact factor (9180 citations, h=55), 3 book chapters, and contributed to over 120 communications at national and international conferences.
Niko Moritz, University of Turku
Niko Moritz is an experienced professional in Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, serving as a University Lecturer in Biomaterials Science at the University of Turku, Finland. He leads the Biomedical Engineering Research Group, focusing on optimizing implant materials and designs through advanced additive manufacturing, bionic and biomechanical principles, and AI-based software for cranial and maxillofacial reconstructions. He co-founded three startups, directing strategic, research, and technical activities. With an extensive background in biomaterials science and engineering and 64 peer-reviewed publications, he also consults for several medtech companies, with a design portfolio exceeding 600 patient-specific cranial and maxillofacial implants.
Krzysztof Naplocha, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology
Krzysztof Naplocha is a professor and head of the Department of Lightweight Elements Engineering, Foundry and Automation, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology. An accomplished researcher with a PhD focusing on metal matrix composites reinforced with ceramic fibers through squeeze casting. Specializing in metallurgy, foundry processes, liquid metal pressure infiltration, and the high-temperature SHS synthesis. Currently supervising projects aimed at enhancing thermal conductivity in heat storage systems, additive manufacturing of custom ceramic dental implants and sustainable surface treatments for industrial applications. He and his research team pioneered an innovative technique for casting magnesium alloy implants, utilizing digitally designed spatial structures. International research experiences include internships at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht in Germany and the National Institute of Materials Physics in Romania, focusing on advanced materials and composite technologies.
Elżbieta Pamuła, AGH University of Krakow
Elżbieta Pamuła is a Full Professor in Biomaterials Engineering at the AGH University of Krakow, Poland. She holds two MSc degrees in Materials Science and Chemical Engineering. She received her PhD in Materials Science and had postdoctoral experience at the Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium, in the Laboratory of Interface Chemistry. The research interests of Elżbieta Pamuła include: polymer and lipid processing in drug delivery systems, inhalable formulations, injectable and implantable bone substitutes, and surface modification of biomaterials. She serves as President of the Polish Society for Biomaterials (since 2016), Council Member of the European Society for Biomaterials (since 2023), and Secretary of the Steering Committee of the International College of Fellows Biomaterials Science and Engineering (since 2024). Elżbieta Pamuła has published more than 160 articles, 14 book chapters, and owns 9 patents.
Agata Przekora-Kuśmierz, Medical University of Lublin
Prof. Agata Przekora-Kuśmierz (total IF = 468.277, h-index = 31, 13 Polish Patents) is a full professor at Medical University of Lublin (Poland) and head of the Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. She is a biotechnologist and materials scientist with 16-year experience at engineering of biomaterials with main focus on bone implants, cartilage scaffolds, and wound dressings. She has also 18-year experience at using in vitro cellular models in the biomedical research. She has developed many unique protocols for the preclinical evaluation of biomaterials under in vitro conditions, limiting the use of animal models in scientific research. She has been a principal investigator of numerous research grants, including four OPUS grants financed by the National Science Centre in Poland. Expert in the evaluation of scientific projects appointed by, among others, the European Commission, the French National Research Agency, NAWA, NCN.
Ana Paula Ramos, University of São Paulo
Ana Paula Ramos is an associate Professor of Physical-Chemistry, at the University of São Paulo-Brazil and a researcher of the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq). She is the coordinator of the Physical Chemistry of Colloids and Surfaces Laboratory, with expertise in surfaces modification and characterization by microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Her main research interests are the synthesis of biomaterials for bone replacement and regeneration. In special, her current projects focus on the use of biomimetic matrices inspired by the interaction of phospholipids and osteogenic proteins found in matrix vesicles as modifiers of metals used for dental implants. Moreover, she is currently investigating the role of strontium on physiological and pathological mineralization.
António Manuel Ramos, University of Aveiro
Associate Professor with habilitation in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Aveiro, Portugal. His academic and industry experience focuses on project and product design, particularly in the areas of medical devices and new mechanical systems. He completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, where he studied and developed a new cement component for hip arthroplasty in 2005. His research interests include the design of medical products across a broad range of applications, from the prevention of major traumatic injuries to the development of new implants. He has supervised over 100 master's degree students and four Ph.D. students in mechanics. He has participated in more than 20 research projects and served as the president of the Portuguese Society of Biomechanics from 2019 to 2023.
Jakub D. Rybka, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań
Prof. dr hab. inż. Jakub Dalibor Rybka, MBA is a specialist in biotechnology, biomedical engineering, and bionanomaterials, affiliated with Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań (AMU). He currently serves as a full professor and the director of the NanoBioMedical Centre at AMU. He is one of the first titular professors in the field of biotechnology in Poland. His academic path includes a PhD in modular antibody engineering obtained at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna and a habilitation at the Faculty of Biology, AMU, focusing on the application of nanomaterials in biotechnology. Prof. Rybka is the head and founder of the Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology at AMU, and his research team focuses on 3D bioprinting, nanomaterials, and tissue engineering. Additionally, he serves as the Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of SpinBionic, the first biotechnology spin-off company of Adam Mickiewicz University. He has led significant research grants, contributing to advancements in COVID-19 immunodiagnostics, regenerative medicine, and nanobiotechnology. Jakub Rybka has supervised three PhD theses (in the fields of chemical sciences, biological sciences, and materials engineering), six master's theses, and six bachelor's theses. Prof. Rybka has been honored with, among others, the Silver Seal of the City of Poznań (2023) and the Minister of Science Award for significant achievements in implementation (2024). He is also a multiple recipient of the Rector's Award at AMU. Additionally, Jakub Rybka is known for his efforts in science popularization.
Wojciech Simka, Silesian University of Technology
Prof. Wojciech Simka is an employee of the Faculty of Chemistry at the Silesian University of Technology. He is the Dean of the Faculty and the Head of the Department of Inorganic, Analytical and Electrochemistry. Chemical. He is or has been the manager of projects financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, National Science Centre, National Center for Research and Development. His scientific interests are related to the modification of the surface layer of metals using electrochemical methods, in particular for biomedical applications. He is the author of over 190 articles listed in the JCR, as well as several patents. The solutions developed by his team have been implemented in several industrial plants in Poland.
Agnieszka Sobczak-Kupiec, Cracow University of Technology
Prof. Dr. Hab. Eng. Agnieszka Sobczak-Kupiec Vice Dean for Science Faculty of Materials Science and Physics, Department of Materials Science Professor of engineering and technical sciences, editor-in-chief of the journal "Inżynieria Materiałyowa" published by SIGMA-NOT and member of the Scientific Policy Committee at the Minister of Science and Higher Education. Currently, he is the head of the OPUS project "Hierarchical approach to bone and cartilage tissue engineering "OsteoHierarch" financed by the National Science Centre. Head and executor of several research projects, including those financed by the NCN, NCBR, MNiSzW, FNP. He is the author of over 150 publications (including over 100 JCR), 15 granted patents, 12 studies for the industry. Industry expert in MFiPR MCP, NCBR, NAWA, EC, PARP, BGK. She has completed numerous scientific and industrial internships, including at UC Berkeley USA, University of Strathclyde, French National Institute for Nuclear Science and Technology and French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission CEA. She is a member of numerous advisory bodies: Team for Implementation Doctorates (MNiSzW), Working Group for Regional Innovation Strategy (Małopolska). She has been awarded many times for her scientific, research and invention activities, including the Honorary Decoration of the Prime Minister "For Merits for Invention", "Inventor 2017", which is awarded in a plebiscite organized by the Federation of Scientific and Technical Associations NOT (FSNT-NOT) and the Patent Office of the Republic of Poland, distinction in the 9th edition of the competition for the title of "Businesswoman of the Year" as part of Sukces Pisany Szminką in the Science and Business category, Award of the President of the National Chamber of Commerce. The inventions created by the team under her leadership have been recognized internationally, receiving a number of medals and awards at the highest-ranking international fairs and exhibitions, including those in Paris, Brussels, Warsaw, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Prague, Moscow, Nuremberg, Zagreb and others (she received over 150 Medals, Awards and Distinctions in total).
Michał Wszoła, Medical University of Warsaw / Polbionica
Professor Michał Wszoła is a visionary scientist, transplant surgeon, and CEO of Polbionica S.A. He is the creator of the Bionic Pancreas-ATMPÒ, a groundbreaking living organ designed to restore blood sugar regulation and transform diabetes and chronic pancreatitistreatment. His innovative work combines transplantology and endoscopy, leading to the development of a pioneering endoscopic transplantation of pancreatic islets. In 2013, he performed the world’s first such procedure. On March 14, 2019, his team successfully bioprinted the first fully vascularized bionic pancreas, a milestone in regenerative medicine. Currently, he is preparing for clinical trials to implant the bionic pancreas in humans. His work at Polbionica focuses on bringing this innovation into clinical practice, offering new hope for diabetes patients. Under his leadership, Polbionica integrates cutting-edge biotechnology, biomaterials, and regenerative medicine to develop patient-specific organ replacements. His research has received international recognition and funding, highlighting the potential impact of bioprinted organs on the future of medicine. With expertise in transplantation and innovative medical technologies, he continues to push the boundaries of personalized medicine and regenerative therapies. He also hold a position of Scientific Director of Fundation of Research and Science Development and Strategy Development Officer at MediSpace Hospital.
Nino Zavradashvili, Agricultural University of Georgia
Nino Zavradashvili is an associate professor at the Agricultural University of Georgia and a senior researcher at the Institute of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of the same university. She holds a Ph.D. from the Georgian Technical University and has done post-doctoral studies at Northeastern University (USA) and Hokkaido University (Japan), and worked at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) within the framework of the SNSF joint grant project. Her research interests include the synthesis and study of biodegradable and biocompatible polymers based on naturally occurring and non-toxic building blocks, and more recently the design and study of multifunctional cationic polymers for numerous biomedical applications.
Andrzej Zieliński, Gdańsk University of Technology
Andrzej Stefan Zieliński is Professor Emeritus of Gdańsk University of Technology. He received his D.Sc. degree in 1990 and the Professor title in 2020. From 1994, he was appointed as Associate and Full Professor, Head of the Materials Science and Engineering Department, Chairman of the Biomaterials Division, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation and European Programmes, and President of the Center for Advanced Materials in different periods. His scientific achievements are located in the degradation of materials in all fields, including aircraft and sea transport and nuclear power plants. He has been active in biomaterials engineering since 2003, and the most important achievements of his team include the development of 3D manufacturing of porous titanium implants, technologies of the hydroxyapatite, chitosan, and carbon nanotubes coatings with various antibacterial elements, titanium anodization by micro-arc oxidation, and development of antibacterial biocement. His long-term research mission as a Postdoctoral Associate, the Humboldt Rsearch Fellow, or Visiting Professor were carried out at the Notre Dame University in USA, RWTH Aachen in Germany, ENSMA, Poitiers, and Universite Bordeaux in France, Max-Planck-Institut für Metallforschung in Stuttgart, Germany. His international cooperation in the biomaterials field was the most significant with the Dresden University of Technology, Tel Aviv University, and University Bordeaux. These achievements include almost two hundred publications in the WoS and leadership in twelve national and international research projects. The supervisor of 18 Ph. D. students, the reviewer of over forty applications for Professor titlem D. Sc. And Ph. D. grades. The expert in biomaterials and raw materials for the Directorate of Science and Technology in the Horizon 2020 program and for energy materials at the KIT in Krakow.
This esteemed group of experts is dedicated to advancing knowledge and research in the field of implants and biomaterials. Comprising leading professionals from various disciplines, our committee members bring a wealth of experience and innovative ideas to the conference. Their commitment to excellence ensures that the conference will be a platform for insightful discussions, cutting-edge research, and collaborative opportunities.
Join us as we explore the latest advancements and challenges in implant technology!