Innovations in Medical Materials - Research in Biomaterials and New Manufacturing Processes
Dr Peter Twigg, Senior Lecturer in Medical Engineering, University of Bradford

The field of biomaterials has been key in driving medical device innovation across a wide range of applications. Biomaterials have to fulfil a number of roles including mechanical, biological, structural and chemical, so the performance demands on them are high. The regulatory testing and quality requirements are also demanding, increasing the cost of biomaterials innovation. However, the potential benefits of new materials and processes are immense, facilitating not only improved device performance but also entirely new devices and treatments.

This discussion group will seek to:

1. Identify current trends in the development of biomaterials and manufacturing processes.
2. Identify unfulfilled clinical need for new or improved biomaterials performance.
3. Identify gaps between current development and need.
4. Provide a forum for networking between those interested in addressing these gaps.