Thiel College biochemistry major participates in regenerative medicine program

Posted September 08, 2021 Print

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Katrina Deckinger ’22, a biochemistry major and member of the Dietrich Honors Institute, participated in the University of Pittsburgh McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine summer school program during summer break.

“Regenerative medicine is an emerging field in scientific and clinical research,” Deckinger said. “The University of Pittsburgh McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine focuses on new clinical therapies through the use of medical technologies and biomedical engineering.”

Undergraduate students who take part in the Institute’s summer school program learn about regenerative medicine and become engaged in research at the University of Pittsburgh. This year, the program was held virtually through a series of online lectures given by speakers including Dr. William Wagner, the Director of the McGowan Institute; Dr. Bryan Brown, of the University of Pittsburgh Department of Engineering; Dr. Donna Stolz, of the University of Pittsburgh Center of Biological Imaging; and Dr. Riccardo Gottardi, of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Lecture topics included the artificial heart program at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, biomaterials to treat heart attacks, stem cell therapies for dental treatments, and microscopic imaging that showed images of the COVID-19 virus.

“I am deeply grateful for being part of this incredible program,” said Deckinger.

Deckinger, of Donegal, Pa., is a 2018 graduate of Mt. Pleasant Area High School and a member of the Neuroscience Club and Women Inspiring the Next Generation.