Dr. Mehdi Sheikhi | biotechnology Award | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Mehdi Sheikhi | biotechnology Award | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Mehdi Sheikhi , University of Isfahan , Iran

Mehdi Sheikhi, a prominent polymer chemist, currently serves as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Isfahan, specializing in advanced biomaterials for biomedical applications. His research primarily focuses on developing innovative hydrogel formulations for tissue engineering, particularly for non-infectious diabetic wound treatment. Mehdi completed his Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry at the University of Isfahan, where he gained recognition for his pioneering work on 3D-printable and conductive granular hydrogels. Over the years, he has authored numerous publications in esteemed journals, contributing to areas like self-healing hydrogels, advanced wound dressings, and biocompatible polymer materials. His expertise in 3D printing and biopolymer design has led to various accolades, including the Isfahan Province Distinguished Student Award. Beyond academia, he has contributed to industrial projects, holding a research position at Kia Polymer Arvand Corporation. His professional interests revolve around designing bioactive polymer systems, aiming to enhance healthcare solutions through chemistry and materials science.

Professional Profile:

Google Scholar

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Mehdi Sheikhi’s work in polymer chemistry, particularly in the development of bioactive and multifunctional hydrogels, positions him as a strong candidate for the ” Young Scientist Award ” . His innovative research focuses on creating advanced materials for tissue engineering, including hydrogel systems designed for diabetic wound treatment, which is a significant contribution to healthcare and regenerative medicine. Mehdi’s expertise in 3D-printable, self-healing, and electrically conductive hydrogels demonstrates a profound understanding of the complex interplay between materials science and biomedical applications. His publications in esteemed journals and his recognitions, such as the Isfahan Province Distinguished Student Award and the Best Paper Award at an international polymer conference, highlight his dedication and impact on his field.

🎓Education:

Mehdi Sheikhi holds a rich academic background in polymer chemistry, with a current postdoctoral position at the University of Isfahan. His ongoing research involves creating tissue-substitutive hydrogels aimed at treating non-infectious diabetic wounds. He earned his Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry from the University of Isfahan in 2023, where he conducted pioneering research on 3D-printable, electrically conductive hydrogels for skin tissue engineering. His doctoral dissertation, rated “Excellent,” was supervised by Dr. Fatemeh Rafiemanzelat, with advisory input from Prof. Lorenzo Moroni and Dr. Mohsen Setayeshmehr. Mehdi completed his M.S. in Polymer Chemistry at the same university, focusing on unsaturated polyester resins to improve tissue compatibility. Prior to his graduate studies, he earned a B.S. in Pure Chemistry from Urmia University. With high academic performance and expertise in bioactive polymer synthesis, Mehdi’s educational journey has provided a strong foundation for his contributions to polymer science and biomaterials research.

🏢Work Experience:

Mehdi Sheikhi has a versatile background in research and development, particularly in polymer chemistry for biomedical applications. His current role as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Isfahan centers on formulating hydrogels for tissue engineering. He has held research roles in various capacities, such as an R&D specialist at Kia Polymer Arvand Corporation, where he led the “Synthesis of Acid-Resistant Ion Exchange Membranes” project and contributed to PVC gel production. In academia, Mehdi has significant teaching experience, including roles as a polymer lab instructor and general chemistry lab instructor at the University of Isfahan. Additionally, he served as a teaching assistant for courses in organic and polymer chemistry, mentoring students and supporting laboratory classes. His professional experience underscores his strong laboratory skills, proficiency in 3D printing techniques, and commitment to innovation in polymeric materials, making substantial contributions to both research and industry.

🏅Awards:

Throughout his academic and research career, Mehdi Sheikhi has received numerous accolades, underscoring his contributions to polymer chemistry and biomedical materials. He earned the Isfahan Province Distinguished Student Award in 2022 for his outstanding achievements in polymer research. Mehdi was also honored with the Student Book of the Year Award in 2022, recognizing his contributions to academic literature. His excellence in chemistry was previously acknowledged through the University Excellence Award in 2018, and he received the Chemistry Faculty Excellence Award in 2017 for his notable contributions to polymer science. Additionally, Mehdi won the Best Paper Award at the International Seminar on Polymer Science and Technology in 2016, highlighting his early impact in polymer science. These accolades reflect Mehdi’s ongoing dedication to advancing polymer chemistry, particularly in biomedical applications, and his role as a distinguished researcher within his academic community.

🔬Research Focus:

Mehdi Sheikhi’s research interests lie in the realm of polymer chemistry, with a particular focus on designing bioactive and functional polymers for healthcare applications. His current postdoctoral work involves developing hydrogels for tissue engineering, specifically for use in treating non-infectious diabetic wounds. Mehdi’s expertise includes the synthesis and optimization of 3D-printable hydrogels with unique properties, such as self-healing and electrical conductivity, tailored for biomedical use. Additionally, he is dedicated to designing shape-memory polymers and novel polymeric platforms that support tissue compatibility and promote effective wound healing. His research further encompasses the development of bio-compatible, smart wound dressings and photo-curable polyester resins with enhanced tissue adherence and stability. Through a multidisciplinary approach, Mehdi’s work addresses critical challenges in regenerative medicine, aiming to provide innovative solutions that bridge polymer science with biomedical engineering for improved patient outcomes.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. “Development of an antibacterial and antioxidative nanofibrous membrane using curcumin-loaded halloysite nanotubes for smart wound healing: In vitro and in vivo studies”
    • Citations: 27
  2. “3D printing of jammed self-supporting microgels with alternative mechanism for shape fidelity, crosslinking and conductivity”
    • Citations: 21
  3. “Electrospun nylon 6/hyaluronic acid/chitosan bioactive nanofibrous composite as a potential antibacterial wound dressing”
    • Citations: 16
  4. “Control of eriocitrin release from pH-sensitive gelatin-based microgels to inhibit α-glucosidase: an experimental and computational study”
    • Citations: 16
  5. “Protein and polysaccharide-based asymmetric mat with tuned bilayer configuration for enhanced wound healing efficiency”
    • Citations: 15