On Tuesday, we held a dedicated MISFAITH project meeting, welcoming two distinguished researchers from the United States:
- Professor Candan Tamerler, University of Kansas
- Professor Malcolm L. Snead, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California
Both guests are leading international experts in peptide-enabled biomaterials and contributed valuable insights to our discussions. Their input significantly advanced the scientific and translational ambitions of the MISFAITH project, which aims to tackle biomaterial-associated infections through novel strategies in design, synthesis, and clinical validation.
The MISFAITH consortium continues to strengthen ties between Norwegian, European, and US partners, including academic institutions, clinical environments, and small and medium-sized enterprises. This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to addressing peri-implant and device-related infections with clinically relevant innovations.
Visit to the Department of Biosciences: Biofilm Modelling in Focus
As part of the programme, we also visited the Department of Biosciences, where we observed the recently developed multi-species biofilm model in action. This model represents an important step forward in replicating the complex microbial environments relevant to peri-implant infections and wound healing scenarios.
The ongoing collaboration between our departments has already produced promising preliminary data, and several publications are expected soon. This integrated approach, combining microbiology, biomaterials science, and clinical relevance, is a key pillar of the MISFAITH project and reflects the collaborative research environment at the University of Oslo.
Guest Lectures at the Faculty Club
On Wednesday, 3 September, Professors Tamerler and Snead each delivered guest lectures to an audience of researchers, clinicians, and students at the Faculty Club, Geitmyrsveien 69.
Professor Candan Tamerler (University of Kansas):
“Bioactive and Biomimetic Biomaterials Guided by Machine Learning Design of Peptides”
Professor Tamerler presented her group’s work at the interface of synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and materials science. Her lecture highlighted how machine learning approaches are accelerating the design of self-assembling peptides for targeted biofunctionalisation of implant surfaces.
Professor Malcolm L. Snead (University of Southern California):
“Machine Learning Identification, Design and Optimization of Antimicrobial Peptides that Selectively Target Periodontal Pathogens”
Professor Snead discussed new computational frameworks for identifying antimicrobial peptides that can target pathogenic bacteria involved in peri-implantitis. His work spans fundamental biology and the development of translational biomaterials, and is closely aligned with the goals of the MISFAITH project.
Professor Snead also holds an Honorary Doctorate from the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Oslo, and we were pleased to welcome him back for this occasion.
The Department of Biomaterials extends its sincere thanks to all participants for their contributions to two inspiring days of scientific exchange. We are particularly grateful to our international collaborators for travelling to Oslo and for their continued engagement in our shared research efforts.
Acknowledgement: This event was supported by The Research Council of Norway [grant numbers 331752, 332148, 346292].