First-Gen Spotlight with Dr. Kristan Worthington

Dr. Kristan Worthington is an associate professor in the Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering at The University of Iowa. In addition to directing the Worthington Lab, she is an affiliate of the Iowa Neuroscience Institute and The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research. 

Her work has been recognized by the American Chemical Society, the Association for Vision Research, and the Fight for Sight Foundation. 

Professor Worthington’s primary research interests focus on understanding interactions between human cells and man-made biomaterials, and leveraging these behaviors for specific applications. Professor Worthington and her team use two-photon polymerization, a form of high-resolution 3D printing, to create microstructured support scaffolds for photoreceptor cell replacement therapies and have shown that this technique can also be used for precision drug delivery. Ultimately, the Worthington Lab is interested in determining how material architecture, stiffness, and biochemistry independently and synergistically influence cell fate decisions, particularly the fate of pluripotent stem cells, neurons, and cells in proximity to healing wounds. As such, Professor Worthington and her group are also interested in in situ biomaterial fabrication for wound-healing applications in the oral cavity, as well as the economic and societal considerations associated with global biomaterials development.
 

As a first-gen scholar, what sparked your interest in pursuing an education in science?
Although it’s difficult to pinpoint a single moment, there are a few experiences that played a role in my career decisions. For example, during a visit to my grandparents’ house when I was around 10 years old, I found an old microscope in the basement, and I got to take it home. I had learned about circuits in school, so I used a paperclip to fix the broken switch and then spent hours looking at microbes from puddles in the backyard, among other things. With the help of many wonderful teachers and mentors, I continued to develop a love of science and math. I didn’t realize that I could combine those two interests into a career until my high school chemistry teacher encouraged me to consider a major in chemical engineering. The rest is history! 

Can you share a specific challenge you've faced in your research and how it has shaped your approach moving forward? 
One of the major tools that we use in my lab is light-based manufacturing, which relies on a molecule, called a photoinitiator, to trigger a chain reaction to form a polymer when it’s exposed to light. Most photoinitiators have been optimized for use in industrial polymers and to respond to UV light. Thus, in our work using light-based manufacturing for tissue engineering applications, we struggled to find effective photoinitiators that were water-soluble, non-toxic, and respond to visible light. This challenge became an opportunity for a new research direction in the lab, as we are now developing biologically sourced molecules as photoinitiator systems. This effort includes a collaboration with Dr. Laura Jarboe and her team, made possible by Chemurgy 2.0, to employ microbes to produce these photoinitiators. 

What is “advanced biomanufacturing” to you?
To me, “advanced biomanufacturing” means harnessing the power of biology to create new things or amplify the manufacturing of useful products. In either case, I think one important aspect of biomanufacturing is to also aim to have a neutral or positive impact on our planet’s well-being.  

How does Iowa EPSCoR connect/help your project(s)?
Our collaboration within the Iowa EPSCoR program has catalyzed new research possibilities within the lab. For example, as we were talking with Dr. Jarboe’s team about possible biochemical pathways for producing our photoinitiators, we uncovered new molecules that turned out to be even more effective than our initial candidate molecules. Participating in Chemurgy 2.0 has also helped me build my network with other like-minded scientists in the region, incorporate the perspectives of diverse experts and industry leaders, and sharpen my leadership skills. 

What inspires you?
I am very motivated by research that aims to improve human health and inspired by how far we have come as a society, even just in the last few decades. I also grew up spending a lot of time in nature, which I find to be really inspiring and grounding for multiple aspects of my life. This ties into my motivation to engage in biotechnology research that includes consideration for preserving and protecting natural ecosystems.  

What advice would you give today’s young scientists?
Early in your research career, developing critical thinking and listening skills and finding great mentors will have a much greater impact than any specific research project. At the same time, cultivate a curious and open mind and try to find out what type of research really motivates you so that it feels natural to work hard through the ups and downs.