Kartik Balachandran, a professor of biomedical engineering, has been named interim associate dean for research in the College of Engineering. He began his new duties July 16.

Balachandran joined the U of A in 2012, immediately after a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University. He began his studies in mechanical engineering but transitioned to biomedical engineering in graduate school because of his interest in translational research and biomedical devices that could improve patients' lives.

His research focuses on building microphysiological systems — 3D organ models engineered from human cells and tissues that mimic critical human functions and are referred to informally as "organs-on-chips." These models are useful to study and understand biological mechanisms, including what happens when diseases, toxins or trauma interfere with them. These models are also of increasing importance in pharmaceutical drug testing and development.

Balachandran said it's an honor to be appointed to the role.

"I am very excited to work with the dean's office and the college's research team toward advancing our college's research mission as we work toward our Vision 2035 strategic objectives," he said. "I look forward to strengthening our college's efforts in promoting innovative and collaborative research activities that can potentially drive economic development in our state."   

College of Engineering Dean Kim Needy said Balachandran's experience as a researcher who has garnered substantial extramural funding and done groundbreaking research into complex processes made him a perfect fit to lead expansion of the college's research efforts.

"I was so pleased when Kartik agreed to step into this role, and I'm confident he will be a great adviser who can guide me and the faculty through uncertain times regarding federal research funding," she said. "This is a key position to realizing the college's goal to substantially increase the campus' research enterprise over the next several years."

Balachandran's research is supported by the U.S. Department of Defense, National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation and American Heart Association.

Since joining the U of A, Balachandran has authored or co-authored 32 papers, been a co-inventor on seven patent applications (three awarded) and brought in more than $4 million in grants as principal investigator, including the NSF CAREER Award. He has advised 17 graduate students and received the Faculty Gold Medal; College of Engineering's Rising Star Award; Outstanding Teacher, Researcher, and Service Award; and, every year between 2013 to 2024, the Outstanding Mentor Award. 

Balachandran earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the National University of Singapore before attending the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he completed a master's in mechanical engineering and Ph.D. in bioengineering.

Balachandran succeeds Sandra Eksioglu, professor of industrial engineering and holder of the Jim M. and Marie G. Hefley Professorship in Logistics and Entrepreneurship, who will return to the faculty after serving for three years in the position.

Needy complimented Eksioglu's steady leadership during uncertain times.

"She has navigated changes calmly and courageously while building a capable research support team that positions us for long-term success," she said.