Donald E. Ingber

Donald Ingber headshot

Donald E. Ingber is an American cell biologist and bioengineer. He is best known for his contributions to the field of biologically inspired engineering and for pioneering the development of organ-on-a-chip technology. Ingber is the Founding Director of the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University.

Early Life and Education

Ingber was born in New York City. He received his B.A. in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University and his M.D. and Ph.D. from Harvard Medical School.

Career

Ingber's career has been marked by significant contributions to the fields of cell biology, bioengineering, and tissue engineering. He has authored numerous scientific papers and holds several patents in these areas.

Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering

In 2009, Ingber became the Founding Director of the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University. The institute focuses on developing new engineering solutions inspired by biological principles.

Organ-on-a-Chip Technology

One of Ingber's most notable achievements is the development of organ-on-a-chip technology. These microdevices mimic the structure and function of human organs, providing a more accurate model for drug testing and disease research.

Research and Contributions

Ingber's research has spanned various disciplines, including mechanobiology, nanotechnology, and systems biology. His work has led to new insights into how mechanical forces influence cell behavior and tissue development.

Mechanobiology

Ingber has made significant contributions to the field of mechanobiology, studying how physical forces and changes in the mechanical properties of cells and tissues influence cellular behavior and function.

Nanotechnology

In the realm of nanotechnology, Ingber has developed innovative approaches to create nanoscale materials and devices that can interact with biological systems.

Systems Biology

Ingber's work in systems biology involves understanding the complex interactions within biological systems and how these interactions give rise to the function and behavior of living organisms.

Awards and Honors

Ingber has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and engineering, including the National Institutes of Health Director's Pioneer Award and the Harvard Medical School Warren Alpert Foundation Prize.

Personal Life

Ingber resides in Boston, Massachusetts with his family.

See Also

• Biologically inspired engineering
• Organ-on-a-chip
• Mechanobiology
• Nanotechnology
• Systems biology