Waseem Asghar

Nano Lab

Waseem Asghar, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the College of Engineering and Computer Science. He is the recipient of several awards for inventions he has developed through his research, including the STEM Fellowship and the Humanity in Science Award. His lab currently uses nano/micro scale technologies to solve real world problems in medicine, with applications in infectious diseases and disease diagnostics.

Here is more information about Dr. Asghar, in his own words:

How did you first become interested in Biomedical Engineering?

I realized during my graduate studies that I could apply my engineering skills to solving challenges in human health. I started learning and developing micro and Nano-scale devices for biomedical applications. 

What makes you most excited about Biomedical Engineering?

When we create new technology or devices in our lab, the chances are good that the developed technology can be used in medical clinics for the betterment of our health. That's the most rewarding aspect of the work that I do.

Tell me about your most interesting research accomplishment

We have developed multiple devices that have direct clinical utilization including various innovative solutions for testing HIV and Zika virus rapidly in point-of-care settings. One of our devices is now FDA-approved and is currently used for in vitro fertilization all around the word.   

What new developments and innovations can we expect to see in disease diagnostics in the next 5 years?

We expect to see the development of novel devices and testing solutions that can detect diseases rapidly in-home settings like pregnancy tests. Currently available disease detection and monitoring platforms are mostly lab-based and cannot be performed at the point-of-need. My lab is also focusing on developing self-testing technologies for viral infections.

Discuss a positive experience with the Office of Technology Development.

I have had extremely positive interaction with FAU Office of Technology Development especially with Dana. I always get the needed help in time, and there is also expert advice available for you. The people in this office are very hardworking and responsive, I normally get the reply in the same day. Keep doing great work.

What is an interesting fact that people at FAU may not know about you?

I do not know. I am just a normal person who is trying his best to give back to the society by developing new technologies and devices find various applications in biomedicine. 