Engineering Functional Tissues
I develop 3D bioprinted tissues, organoids, and organ-on-chip models to advance the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Discover My WorkAbout Me
I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Radiology and Bioengineering at the Uniformed Services University's School of Medicine. I create 3D bioprinted tissues, organoids, and organ-on-chip models for applications including radiation and toxic exposures assessment, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. Collectively, these tissue models are known as Microphysiological Systems (MPS) or New Approach Methodologies (NAMs).
I have developed bone marrow models that create various types of blood cells, alveolar lung models, 3D engineered heart tissues, osteochondral plugs, and worked with reproductive organoids. I have directed research as a site/sub-award Principal Investigator on R01 and R21 NIH grants and as a research scientist on several DoD-funded grants.
Educated at Cornell University and Virginia Tech, my goal is to bridge the gap between fundamental research and clinical application. I am dedicated to developing practical solutions for regenerative medicine and addressing critical medical needs in challenging environments, while also mentoring the next wave of scientific innovators.
Research Spotlight
Engineered Heart Tissue
My work has included creating engineered heart tissue to study the effects of radiation exposure on cardiac tissue.
These spontaneously beating iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes are stained for cardiac troponin, a key regulator of heart muscle contraction that exhibits characteristic transverse striations. This image, which I captured using a confocal microscope, won the 2026 USUHS Art of Science competition.
Multi-Material Tissue Scaffolds
A key area of my research involves the fabrication of complex, multi-material scaffolds using vat photopolymerization. This image showcases a 3D printed construct designed to direct cell adhesion and growth in three dimensions.
These scaffolds are crucial for engineering functional tissues, as they can mimic the native architecture of biological structures and guide cellular processes.
Career Journey
Apr 2024 - Present
Assistant Professor
Department of Radiology and Bioengineering
Uniformed Services University
Jan 2022 - Sept 2026
Research Scientist
4D Bio3 Center for Biotechnology
Uniformed Services University
Mar 2020 - Jan 2022
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
4D Bio3 Center for Biotechnology
Uniformed Services University
Aug 2013 - Dec 2019
Ph.D. & Graduate Research
Virginia Tech
Selected Publications
Characterization of biological and mechanical properties of 3D-bioprinted osteochondral plugs
International Journal of Bioprinting
3D printing all‐aromatic polyimides using mask‐projection stereolithography: processing the nonprocessable
Advanced Materials
A Review on Fabricating Tissue Scaffolds using Vat Photopolymerization
Acta Biomaterialia
Let's Collaborate
I am always interested in new discussions with potential collaborators. If my work resonates with you, please feel free to connect at nickchartrain [at] gmail [dot] com.