Dr Catalina Vallejo Giraldo

Dr Vallejo Giraldo conducts interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biomaterials, brain mechanobiology and medicine, altering the spatial-temporal-mechanical signals to manipulate cell fate for brain applications. Within this theme, her research focuses on i) 3D culture platform development to study neurological diseases and ii) utilizing these models to apply informed enhancements to biomaterial design and functionalization, specifically in developing and improving neuro-oncology therapies. 

Dr Vallejo Giraldo has extensive international experience in interacting with and leading multidisciplinary teams from academia (Universidad EIA, Colombia, Imperial College London, Cardiff University, and the University of Galway), industry (Neurent Medical), and the clinic (Mayo Clinic, USA). Dr. Vallejo Giraldo has published more than 22 peer-reviewed original research articles, three refereed book chapters, 16 conference proceedings, and one pre-print. Dr Vallejo Giraldo has received several prestigious academic awards, including the Donegan Medal from the Royal Academy of Medicine Ireland (RAMI, BME Section) and the Trainee Award at the 10th World Biomaterials Congress for her contribution to the field of neuronal design of biomaterials and tissue engineering. Dr Vallejo Giraldo has secured over €1.5 million Euros in competitive funding from national and European programs (ERC).