While we as the Editorial Board often praise those at the forefront of social change, we sometimes overlook those who contribute to human progress by challenging the landscape of scientific possibility.
Some worthy recipients of recognition are chemistry professor Joseph DeSimone and his team, whose 3-D printing innovations have revolutionized the growing industry.
The internationally renowned journal Science featured DeSimone’s work in its March 20 issue, highlighting the speed and new designs now possible as a result of his collaborations with colleagues Alex Ermoshkin, chief technology officer at Carbon 3D Inc., and Edward T. Samulski, professor of chemistry at UNC.
Researchers believe there is potential for the Carbon 3D printers to transform medical technologies with conceivable advancements in personalized coronary stents, dental implants or prosthetics.
In recognizing the leaders of this work and their roles as professors at UNC, we must also acknowledge the role of the private sector in driving scientific advancements, as DeSimone and his collaborators have coordinated their work through the startup Carbon 3D.
UNC should continue its strong record of supporting this type of high impact research, as the mass availability of 3-D printing technologies will likely change lives sooner rather than later.
