Welcome to the McHugh Lab in the Department of Bioengineering at Rice University.

Our research focuses on developing drug delivery platforms and engineering tissues using customized polymers and advanced fabrication methods such as multi-photon 3D printing. We leverage the well-characterized behavior of our materials and high spatial control of nanoscale fabrication techniques to rationally design systems with highly predictable behavior. Because our work is highly translational in nature, we seek not only to create technologies that improve patient outcomes, but also ensure that they are feasible to implement clinically.

Although our constructs are engineered to be broadly applicable, we are particularly interested in:

 

  • Modulating the immune response through spatiotemporal control of proteins and adjuvants
  • Using controlled release to improve cancer immunotherapy response rates
  • Developing single-injection vaccines for the developing world
  • Developing new fabrication methods that are compatible with biologics
  • Creating devices that exhibit prolonged, zero-order release

The Lab

PGS-M lab logo made from a PDMS mold

Pulsatile-release microparticles fabricated using SEAL

Sealed PULSED particle resting on a 19 gauge needle

Lab logo made with a peptide cross-linked PEG hydrogel

Rice University's Academic Quad

June, 2024 – The lab has been awarded an NIH R21 award to develop a single-injection post-exposure prophylactic for rabies virus!

June 2024 – The lab has been awarded an NIH R21 award to develop a vaccine delivery platform that mimics the kinetics of native infections!

June 2024 – The lab has been awarded a joint NIH R25 award to create an education and training program for Houston Community College (HCC) students interested in entering the infectious disease workforce!

June, 2024 – Congratulations to Dr. Mei-Li Laracuente Bice for successfully defending her Ph.D. thesis!

April, 2024 – Congratulations to lab member Emily Henrich for being awarded an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship!