Research
Deborah Leckband’s research group uses surface modification, micro-patterning, and materials synthesis to precisely manipulate cell microenvironments. These powerful tools control concentration profiles of soluble factors and adhesive cues. Her team also tunes the mechanical properties of scaffolds to mimic in vivo tissue environments, and thereby precisely control cell stimuli in ways that are difficult to achieve in vivo. Through collaborations with biologists both at UIUC and other institutions, Leckband uses these platforms to understand and manipulate cell behavior.
Education
- Ph.D., Cornell University, 1988
Campus Affiliations
- Reid T. Milner Professor, School of Chemical Sciences
- Professor, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
- Professor, Bioengineering
- Professor, Chemistry
- Professor, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology
Select Honors and Recognitions
- NSF CAREER Award, 1995
- Langmuir Lectureship Award, 2021
- AIMBE Fellow, 2004
- AAAS Fellow, 2005
- ACS Fellow, 2009