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 Work

About 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.

3D Bioprinting
Tissue Engineering
Bioink Formulation
Organ-on-a-Chip
Nicholas Chartrain working with a bioprinter in the lab

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.

3D Engineered Heart Tissue

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.

3D printed multi-material tissue scaffold

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

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.