Alumni Spotlight: Advancing Laser Materials Processing for Biomedical Applications - A Conversation with Dr Ayesha Sharif
Dr Ayesha Sharif’s career journey reflects the impact of research at the intersection of advanced manufacturing and healthcare. Now a Lecturer in Physics at the University of Galway, Ayesha is combining her expertise in laser materials processing with industry partnerships to develop innovative solutions for biomedical applications.
Current Role and Research Focus
In her role at the University of Galway, Ayesha balances teaching with industry-led research in laser materials processing applications. Her work not only advances academic understanding but also focuses on delivering technologies with tangible real-world impact.
“As part of NCLA, I’ve been involved in a medical device industrial research project with InVera Medical, funded by the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) and Enterprise Ireland,” she explains. “The project focused on developing laser-enabled micromachining solutions for improved biomedical device application.”
Collaborating with Industry for Better Patient Outcomes
One of Ayesha’s most impactful projects is BioVAS (Biological Micro-Surgical Vessel Advanced Closure System), which is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL-3). This ambitious initiative aims to improve patients’ lives by developing advanced venous closure methods for those suffering from venous leg ulcers.
Working with medical-grade materials such as shape memory alloys, stainless steel, and bioabsorbable polymers, the team is tailoring laser micromachining solutions to enhance biomedical device performance. Alongside this, they are investigating methods to improve device visibility under medical imaging techniques, ensuring accurate placement, monitoring, and clinical outcomes.
“The ultimate aim is to enable better treatments for patients while ensuring that devices are safer, more effective, and easier to monitor,” Ayesha notes.
Building on an I-Form Foundation
Reflecting on her time as an I-Form researcher, Ayesha highlights the professional and personal growth opportunities that shaped her career path.
“My time at I-Form was highly beneficial, particularly in terms of professional training, public engagement, and networking activities,” she says. “I also found the half-yearly and yearly reporting to I-Form extremely useful - it helped me keep my data well-organised, which was invaluable when writing my PhD thesis.”
She also credits one-to-one mentor and mentee sessions as particularly impactful: “They provided guidance that helped me achieve my career goals and grow as a researcher.”
Advice for Current Researchers
For current I-Form researchers, Ayesha emphasises the importance of engaging fully with the opportunities provided by the center:
“I strongly encourage researchers to take advantage of the professional training programs, networking sessions, and EPE activities organised by I-Form. They are essential for professional growth and skill-building. These opportunities not only strengthen your career profile but also help you make more informed choices about your future goals.”
Driving Innovation at the Intersection of Physics and Medicine
Through her work at the University of Galway and NCLA, Ayesha continues to bridge the gap between advanced physics research and healthcare applications. Her contributions to projects like BioVAS demonstrate the potential of laser materials processing to transform biomedical device development and improve patient care.