Ellie
What is the best major to go for stem cell/tissue engineering?
My end goal is stem cell and tissue engineering, but I don't know which major is best for me to take and learn the most for it. I've researched for a while now and have gathered that I can choose from ChemE with Bio electives, Materials Science, or Bioengineering. I just want to work in research labs, which has lead me to think Bioengineering would fit best, but others say ChemE and Materials Science are better.
#bioengineering #chemical-engineering #materials-science #biology #college-major #tissue-engineering #stem #stem-cells
2 answers
Elham Maroufyan
Elham’s Answer
Biology , life science and microbiology or pre-med
Matthew Burkhardt
Matthew’s Answer
Ellie,
I would point you more in the biology, physiology, or molecular biology direction. A big issue in the stem cell field (iPSC or otherwise) and for their application in drug discovery/disease modeling, tissue engineering, and/or cell-based therapy is to ensure you can differentiate the cells to the appropriate cell type. This really boils down to replicating the tissue- and organ-specific development context. Understanding how different cell types are formed and how they integrate into and function within specific types of tissue (brain, muscle, etc.) is crucial. Having a background in genetic engineering would certainly add high value as well. The bioengineering approach will most likely give you insight into the materials aspects of the stem cell field (extracellular matrix dis/advantages, 3D grafts and bioprinting, etc.) - certainly valuable as well. Take a look at Anthony Atala at Wake Forest, CIRM's website in CA, BlueRock Therapeutics, NovoHeart, and other industry groups active in the stem cell/tissue engineering space as well. And don't hesitate to send an email their way!