Mechanobiology &
Soft Materials
Laboratory
Balalabers
The team behind the cool science
The OG BBB (Balalab Big Boss)
Dr. Kartik Balachandran
Interim Associate Dean for Research in Engineering
College of Engineering - University of Arkansas
Professor
Department of Biomedical Engineering - University of Arkansas
Principal Investigator
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Postdoctoral Fellow ﹣ Harvard University (2012) 🇺🇸
Ph.D. in Bioengineering ﹣ Georgia Institute of Technology (2010) 🇺🇸
MSc. in Mechanical Engineering ﹣ Georgia Institute of Technology (2008) 🇺🇸
B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering ﹣ National Universe of Singapore (2001) 🇸🇬
I am interested in the role of mechanical forces on physiology, function and disease. I am especially fascinated by the interaction between structure and mechanics in regulating biological responses at different length-scales. My team utilizes organ-on-chip engineering, tissue engineering, biomaterials and imaging approaches to answer questions in the areas of cardiac valve calcification, cardiac disease, blood-brain barrier dysfunction due to traumatic brain injury, and nasal epithelial dysfunction. Knowledge gained from these studies will help guide the development of future medical interventions and regenerative therapies.
The Grant Hunter
Lexi Applequist
Doctoral Researcher
Heart-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Ph.D. Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
NSF Graduate Research Fellow, Doctoral Academy Fellow, P.E.O. Scholar, Graduate Entrepreneurial Fellow, Kaneaster & Ruth Hodges Fellow, Applied Innovation Fellow, Community & Student Engagement Fellow
M.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (2025) 🇺🇸
Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship ﹣ University of Arkansas (2025) 🇺🇸
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (2021) 🇺🇸
In the lab, I am working to develop a novel Co-cultured Cardiomyocyte-on-Chip Platform (CoCo Chip) and Non-invasive Contractility Evaluation Chip (NICE Chip). These platforms, used to culture cardiomyocytes (heart muscle cells) and skeletal muscle, automatically and continuously collect contractility throughout culture, giving insights into disease state and response to stimuli (i.e. alcohol, exercise, drug compounds, etc). These models are ultimately used for studying disease progression, screening new pharmaceutical drug compounds, and serving as a diagnostic tool in clinical settings.
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I am the CEO and Cofounder of Humimic Biosystems, a company created with the goal of commercializing the Balalab's organ model platforms for pharmaceutical use.
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To date, I've secured over $500K in research and business development funding.
Outside of the lab, you can find me at the park with my dogs or exploring local flea markets and antique shops :)
apappleq@uark.edu
The RNA Wizard
Gustavo Vaca Diez
Doctoral Researcher
Heart Valve-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Ph.D. Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
AHA Predoctoral Fellow, P.K. Kuroda Graduate Fellow
M.S. in Biomedical Engineering﹣ University of Arkansas (2025) 🇺🇸
B.Eng. in Bioengineering ï¹£ Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires (2017) 🇦🇷
My research focuses on investigating the relationship between hypertension and the onset of aortic valve disease using organ-on-chip platforms. Specifically, I am paying attention on the influence of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) on valve interstitial cell signaling. A key player I am focusing in is the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in mitigating the pathological effects of RAS, potentially serving as an intrinsic self-defense mechanism. Understanding these processes holds promise for the development of targeted interventions aimed at preventing hypertension-induced aortic valve disease. Our valve-on-chip platform provides physiologically relevant conditions for in vitro co-culture of valve interstitial cells (VICs) and valve endothelial cells (VECs). By mimicking extracellular matrix components, applying cyclical mechanical stretching, and simulating endothelial flow, this device may provide significant insights into valve disease progression.
The Nosey One
Adrienne Vaughan
Doctoral Researcher
Nasal Airway-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Ph.D. Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Distinguished Doctoral Fellow
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (2024) 🇺🇸
I became familiar with the Balalab through an internship with Global Reach Bionics and quickly became fascinated with their innovative organ-on-chip research. By providing more accurate, ethical, and cost-effective pharmaceutical testing models, OOC research is revolutionizing the disease modeling and therapeutic development landscape. My research focuses on advancing the physiological relevance of the nasal airway-on-chip (a.k.a. the coolest chip! :) and applying it to study the effects of urban particulate matter on healthy and diseased human nasal airway systems. When I’m not in the lab, I love watching Razorback basketball, running, and drinking coffee.
SolidWorks Commander
Connor Robinson
Doctoral Researcher
Heart Valve-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Ph.D. Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Doctoral Academy Fellow
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (2026) 🇺🇸
My work in Balalab is primarily focused on designing, fabricating, and testing the Biaxial Engineered Aortic Tissue Chip (BEAT Chip). I am using this platform to investigate the effects of different levels of biaxial strain on aortic valve endothelial cells (VECs). Outside of the lab, I enjoy gaming with friends, hiking, and playing my favorite instrument, the bass guitar.
The Stretching Coach
Mara Mindrup
Laboratory Technician
Blood-Brain Barrier-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (2026) 🇺🇸
Undergraduate Minor in Business ﹣ University of Arkansas (2026) 🇺🇸
Undergraduate Minor in Mathematics ﹣ University of Arkansas (2026) 🇺🇸
In the lab I am working with on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) project, where I focus on differentiating iPSC-derived neurovascular cells and helping with BBB-on-chip manufacturing. I’m especially interested in how engineering can bridge the gap between innovation and practical medical applications, and I hope to work in product engineering or medical device sales in the future. Outside the lab, you can usually find me reading, trying out new coffee shops, or spending time with friends.
Biomaterials Medic
Chloe Smith
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Heart-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Honors College
Pre-Medical
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2027) 🇺🇸
I just joined the Balalab because I was fascinated with the concept of the organ on chip. I have been researching under Lexi to study the proper requirements needed to create a successful heart-on-chip. Our goal is to create a chip that will be able to analyze the effects of different diseases on the contractility of the heart. My personal goal is to apply this knowledge one day when I become a doctor, and this project specifically has grown my interest in becoming a pediatric cardiologist. A few other things I love besides being a member of this lab is dancing, being with my family and friends, and trying new things!
The Silent Pipetter
Russell Key
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Heart Valve-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biology Program
Honors College
Minor in Spanish
B.S. in Biology ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2027) 🇺🇸
I am an undergrad currently working in the Heart Valve-on-Chip project, helping Gustavo with processes such as IHCs, PCR, RNA extraction, and more. I have not started my own research yet, but I will start planning it very soon. This is my first time working in a research lab, and it is very exciting to be working on something with real-world applications, as I hope to make to make an impact on the future. Outside of the lab, I am either watching TV or hanging with friends.
The Overachiever
Ngun Par
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Heart-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Honors College
Pre-Medical
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2027) 🇺🇸
As technology continues to advance, engineering is shaping the future of nearly every field, including medicine. Researching under Lexi has given me the opportunity to see the integration of engineering and medicine firsthand through the heart-on-chip device. The production of this technology and the results of our research will offer a solution to bridging the gap between animal and human testing, allowing for more accurate and reliable drug testing while bringing us closer to personalized, effective treatments. After completing my undergraduate studies, I plan to continue my education in medical school and combine the technical knowledge from this lab with hands-on patient care experience. Beyond my academic pursuits, you can probably find me trying new foods, reading, or spending time with family, friends, and my cat, Coco!
The Coder
Samira Radjabova
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Heart-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Honors College
Minors in Chinese and Mathematics
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2027) 🇺🇸
I work with Lexi and on the Co-cultured Cardiomyocytes-on-Chip (Coco Chip), helping them with tasks surrounding the chip such as laser cutting, making PDMS, spin coating, using the stereoscope and much more. I have a niche surrounding the innovation of biomedical devices and am eager to start my own projects, hoping to explore and apply immunology on the chip as well as develop skills such as modeling and coding. Outside of the lab, I love to listen to music, craft, paint, and go on walks with my dog, Neo!
The Trend Setter
Madhav Nair
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Nasal Airway-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biology Program
Pre-Medical
B.S. in Biology ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2027) 🇺🇸
I am part of the Mechanobiology and Soft Materials Laboratory at Balalab, where I work on the Nasal Airway-on-Chip Project. My focus is on the cell culture aspect of the lab, using airway-on-chip models to study how cellular responses can help us better understand diseases and their mechanisms. I’m especially interested in applying research to show how everyday common aspects of our health can affect the nasal pathway that we might not think of. Outside the lab, I enjoy watching and playing soccer and exploring new ideas that connect science with practical applications.
The New Gal
Grace Rothey
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Nasal Airway-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Honors College
Pre-Medical
Minor in Spanish
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2028) 🇺🇸
In the lab I am working on the nasal airway project, where I am learning all about the different conditions that can affect nasal cells through the NAC chip (nasal airway clip-on chip) or the AirLOC. This is my first time working in a research lab, and I’m so excited to learn more about the research process and innovation present in this experiment. After my training, I’ll be working on the RNA extraction, PCR, and transcriptomics part of the research. I’m especially interested in the mechanics of the project and how we can more accurately engineer synthetic environments similar to biological systems present in the body to get the best results. Outside the lab, you can usually find me watching and playing soccer, listening to music, and trying new foods.
The New Gal
Saira George
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Nasal Airway-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Honors College
Pre-Dental
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2029) 🇺🇸
In the lab I work on the nasal airway-on-chip project, focusing on the flow system that helps the chip simulate natural breathing. I’m interested in examining how different types of particulate matter interact with and impact the nasal airway by running exposures through the flow system to better understand environmental effects on respiratory health. I’m especially drawn to how environmental factors influence human health and how engineering can be used to create medical solutions that address those challenges. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with friends, exploring new food and coffee places, and a little bit of painting and crafts.
The New Gal
Lahey O'Connor
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Blood-Brain Barrier-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biochemistry Program
Honors College
Pre-Medical
Minors in Biology and Business Economics
B.S. in Chemistry ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2028) 🇺🇸
In the lab, I work on the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Project. Researching in the Balalab to develop an innovative, TEER-integrated BBB chip has opened my eyes to how organ-on-chip technology is fundamentally changing medicine. In addition to TEER, I focus on cell culture with iPSC-derived neurovascular cells, performing TBI (traumatic brain injury) testing, and am excited to begin the next phase of my research: hormone studies. By focusing this injury research on female physiology, I hope to target critical gaps in women’s health, particularly the under-researched neurological trauma associated with domestic abuse. I look forward to taking the insights gained through this research and translating them into empathetic, cutting-edge clinical care during medical school and beyond. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, listening to music, and trying new coffee shops throughout Fayetteville!
The New Gal
Juliana Costas Pacheco
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Heart Valve-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Minor in Mathematics
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2027) 🇺🇸
In the lab, I am currently working on the Heart Valve-on-Chip (VOC) Project. My main responsibilities include assisting with the fabrication of organ-on-chip models; PDMS soft lithography, spin coating, and assembling the various components of the micro physiological systems. This experience has strengthened my passion for biomedical engineering by providing valuable hands-on experience and allowing me to apply concepts learned in the classroom to real world applications. I am proud to be part of a team that is working to advance healthcare through innovation and collaboration. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, listening to music and watching Razorback sports!
The New Gal
Emmy Vo
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Blood-Brain Barrier-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Engineering Program
Minor in Nanotechnology
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering ﹣ University of Arkansas (Expected 2028) 🇺🇸
In the Balalab, I work on the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Project, contributing to the development of an innovative TEER-integrated BBB chip. My research focuses on both TEER integration and the fabrication and manufacturing of organ-on-a-chip devices. Through this work, I am gaining hands-on experience in biomedical research, microfluidics, and device development while exploring how engineering innovations can be translated into real-world healthcare applications. These experiences support my goal of pursuing a career in research and development and advancing medical technologies that improve patient outcomes. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, reading, and vintage shopping.
The Quiet One
Tanvi Kartik
Junior Research Assistant
Nasal Airway-on-Chip Project
Mechanobiology & Soft Materials Laboratory
High School Student
High School Diploma ﹣ Haas Hall, Fayetteville (Expected 2029) 🇺🇸
Coming soon...