Biomedical engineering pioneer at McMaster lauded
[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Brash_J.L” caption=”John Brash, director of the School of Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University and distinguished university professor. File photo.”]Countless individuals around the world are alive because of him. His 40 plus years of research have helped to make the use of life-saving devices such as prosthetic heart valves, vascular stents, vascular grafts, heart-assist devices, and heart-lung bypass systems almost commonplace. In the process, he has helped to establish Canada as a biomaterials leader.
John Brash, director of the School of Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University, and distinguished university professor, was recognized for these contributions with the presentation of the Founders Award by the Society for Biomaterials.
“I am honoured and humbled to receive this award given the calibre of past recipients,” said Brash. “Much of the recognition must be shared with the numerous colleagues, peers, and students I have been fortunate to have worked with over the years.”
Brash is only the second Canadian to receive this award, of which just 14 have been presented since it was established in 1987. Selection for a Founders Award is based on long-term, landmark contributions to the discipline of biomaterials.
“John has been a leading member of the world's biomaterials community for many years,” said Michael Sefton, pastpresident of the Society for Biomaterials and chair of the awards committee. “His seminal contributions to our understanding of the behaviour of proteins at interfaces and to the use of polyurethanes in medicine have been among the most important and long-standing contributions to the science of biomaterials.”
Brash is internationally regarded for his work in at least three major areas: protein adsorption and blood compatibility, particularly as it relates to blood proteins and thrombus formation on artificial surfaces; biocompatible polyurethane based materials; and surface modification.
“Dr. Brash, whether interacting with fellow chemical engineers, biomaterials scientists or clinicians, has had a significant influence on the evolution of the field of biomaterials,” said Stuart Cooper, professor and chair of the department of chemical and biomolecular engineering, at Ohio State University.
Discoveries by Brash can be found in some of Canada's most successful biomedical companies including Interface Biologics Inc. of Toronto and Angiotech Inc. in Vancouver.
