The University of Connecticut will offer the world’s first Master of Science Degree in Regenerative Engineering, following a vote by the University Board of Trustees at its meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 9. The program, which will train a new transdisciplinary workforce for convergence research, will be jointly run by the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department and the Materials Science and Engineering Department of the University of Connecticut’s Engineering School.
The Connecticut Convergence Institute for Translation in Regenerative Engineering CEO, and creator of the field, Dr. Cato Laurencin defines regenerative engineering as the convergence of advanced materials sciences, stem cell science, physics, developmental biology, and clinical translation, for the regeneration of complex tissues and organ systems. The field is poised to make breakthrough advances, such as the limb regeneration research taking place at UConn.
“I am very excited we have launched this graduate program to provide the necessary tools and resources to train and inspire future generations of scientists and researchers. The field of regenerative engineering is geared toward creating solutions to problems that will benefit people on a global scale,” says Laurencin.
After completing the program, students will be poised to apply for Ph.D., MD, or Ph.D./MD programs, enter the growing field of convergent research, or engage in other academic, clinical, or business fields. The first students to graduate the program are expected to receive their degrees in 2023.
“Our leaders at the United States National Academies have recently recognized that the implementation of convergence research will be key to solving our most challenging societal needs,” wrote Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Carl W. Lejuez in a letter to the board recommending the approval of the new degree program.
For more information on Regenerative Engineering and the work Dr. Laurencin and his team are currently doing at the Connecticut Convergence Institute, please visit health.uconn.edu/connecticut-convergence-institute.
