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Professor Christine Ortiz is a leading researcher in the field of structural load-bearing biological materials, particularly musculoskeletal tissues and exoskeletal structures. Her research emphasizes the development of hierarchical heterogeneous composite structures that have evolved over millions of years to sustain mechanical loads in specific environments. With a focus on macroscopic and continuum-level biomechanics, she employs her expertise in nanomechanics, which involves measurement and prediction of extremely small forces and displacements. Ortiz aims to quantify nanoscale mechanical properties and establish relationships between molecular structure and material properties. Her work employs novel experimental and theoretical methods, advancing towards a mechanistic understanding of tissue function and pathology, with significant implications for medical engineering. Ortiz's research also explores musculoskeletal tissues in tissue engineering, promising advancements in tissue repair and replacement. Through the discovery of new nanoscale design principles, she aims to develop biologically inspired engineering materials that demonstrate enhanced mechanical properties. Her investigations include diverse model systems such as armored fish and echinoderms, addressing challenges in flexible and transparent armor, as well as biochemical resistance.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Cambridge, MA
Leading research in structural load-bearing biological materials and engineering applications.