Professor Laurence Meagher

EXPERTISE

  • Materials Sciences & Engineering
  • Surface and polymer sciences
  • BioInterfaces

Laurence and his team investigates how material science and engineering can be applied to and help solve medical problems. As the world population ages, new solutions are required to help shape the future of medicine. The approaches Laurence uses are framed by his extensive experience leading commercially focused research and development with commercial clients. For example, Laurence was a key member of the team that developed the Air OPTIX(TM) soft silicone hydrogel contact lens. Many devices and materials used in the clinic have been selected for their material properties or function. Often however, the surface properties are not optimal. In a number of cases, sub-optimal surface properties can lead to reduced function and even failure of the device. Laurence uses his background in surface and polymer science to engineer the properties of surface coatings for use in medical applications.

Laurence Meagher is a Professor in the Department of Material Science and Engineering. He is Director of the ARC Industrial Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies and Director of the Monash SPARK Program which aims to translate technologies into medical applications and patient care. Laurence has researched the role of surface forces in rheology and microfiltration development of materials for biomedical applications and medical engineering. Prior to joining Monash, he worked at CSIRO Manufacturing in the biomedical materials and biointerfaces area, most notably in the development of silicone hydrogel contact

AMR FOCUS 

  • New antimicrobial materials.
  • Bio-inspired antimicrobial polymers.
  • Surface modifications prevent driveline infection.
  • Searching for new strategies against polymicrobial biofilm infections. guanylated polymethacrylates kill mixed fungal/bacterial biofilms.

IMPACT

  • Biodegradable polymers.
  • Antimicrobial materials, biomedical implants and biomedical materials.
  • Bioactive small molecules.

LEADERSHIP

  • Chair:  Industry engagement working group