Early Career Editorial Board Member Interview: Michele Bianchi
Published 15 April, 2025
Dr. Michele Bianchi (Castel San Pietro, Bologna, Italy, 23/08/1982) earned his Master's degree in Photochemistry and Material Chemistry (110/110) in 2007 from the University “Alma Mater Studiorum” of Bologna. He completed his Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences in 2011 at the same university, working at the Institute for the Study of Nanostructured Materials (ISMN) on the development of micro/nanopatterned biomaterials by unconventional fabrication techniques able to guide cellular growth and differentiation. His dissertation was published in the “Springer Thesis” series, which collects a selection of the best doctoral dissertations from around the world across the various scientific disciplines.
Dr. Michele Bianchi
Assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia
From 2011 to 2018, he was a Researcher at the Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute (Bologna), specializing in bioactive and biomimetic nanostructured coatings for orthopedic prostheses and multifunctional scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration. In 2012 he was a Visiting Researcher in the biomaterials group of Prof. John Jansen at the Radboud University Medical Center (Nijmegen, Netherlands), where he advanced his expertise in calcium phosphates for bone tissue replacements.
In 2018, he became Researcher at the Italian Institute of Technology (Ferrara, Italy), where he focused on the design, development and in vitro/in vivo testing of novel neural interfaces based on micro- and nanostructured conducting polymers. Then, in 2022, he was appointed assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, where he currently holds the teachings of “General Chemistry” and “Advanced Biomaterials” to students in bachelor's and master's degree programs in biotechnology, respectively.
Currently, his research focuses on the development of multifunctional biomaterials that can direct cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation for applications in the field of regenerative medicine. In addition, he is interested in studying the migration of cancer cells in microstructured environments under the application of external stimuli, such as electrical and mechanical stimuli, for the fabrication of novel in vitro diagnostic devices.
Dr. Bianchi has authored 69 peer-reviewed publications, presented his work at over 60 conferences, including several invited talks, and holds three patents. He is a co-founder of the start-up "Organic Bioelectronics Srl" and has collaborated on several nationally and European funded projects in the field of biomaterials and regenerative medicine.
Here is the interview we did with him:
- Could you briefly introduce the specific focus of your current research within the broad area of bioactive materials?
The primary focus of my research is the design, development and testing of multifunctional biomaterials, those that can simultaneously promote cell adhesion, growth, differentiation, and ultimately tissue regeneration by leveraging multiple stimulus signals in a synergistic way. For instance, electroactive biomaterials, such as conducting polymers which are also micro- or nanopatterned can offer both topotactic guidance and electrical stimulation within the same material. These biomaterials have diverse applications, ranging from musculoskeletal and neural tissue regeneration to in vitro diagnostics.
- In the context of researching bioactive materials, what unique obstacles or difficulties have you faced?
The main challenge lies in developing innovative solutions that are not only groundbreaking but also practical and rapidly applicable for human use, rather than just being interesting theoretical concepts meant to be accepted in high-impact journals, but which fail in the preclinical stages. Another significant hurdle is a persistent issue in our country: securing continuous funding.
- How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in research, considering the rapidly evolving nature of the field?
I try to stay up to date with technology, although it’s nearly impossible to keep up with all the new developments that emerge constantly. I rely mainly on the websites of the most influential journals in the field, but I also use some social platforms a lot, especially LinkedIn where you can also find the latest technological advancements from companies.
- What were the key factors that attracted you to become an early career editorial board member of Bioactive Materials?
The honor of joining the editorial board of one of the most relevant journals in the biomaterials field and the chance to try to “dig up” some secrets from established researchers by reading their latest publications, hoping one day not too far away to be a part of it.
- From your perspective, what are the most promising directions for the future development of Bioactive Materials?
Regarding regenerative medicine, I think the future direction will go toward biomaterials and biomimetic smart devices, which can promote regeneration of the tissue of interest through the controlled release of molecules, nanoparticles or growth factors, and which disappear once their task is accomplished through the application of external stimuli.
In addition, I hope for the rapid development of even more efficient and realistic in vitro 2.5 (e.g. microfluidics and microstructured environments) or 3D (i.e. spheroids and organoids) diagnostic systems, so that animal models can finally be dispensed with.
- Beyond your scientific endeavors in bioactive materials, what is your favorite pastime?
I enjoy playing the piano, hiking and travelling with my family whenever possible, and watching my children grow up.
- What do you think is the most important quality for researchers?
There are several qualities that stand out. The most obvious one is curiosity: without curiosity, it’s probably best to reconsider your path. The other key qualities in my view are ethical integrity, attention to detail, perseverance, and modesty. In particular, perseverance is the hardest trait to assess in someone, as it only becomes evident over time; however, I believe it plays a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of an academic career. Finally, we must always be certain of one thing: we “know that we do not know.”
- Given the demanding nature of scientific research, how do you manage to strike a balance between your research work and your personal life?
I believe the key to achieving a proper balance is recognizing the importance of prioritizing your family and health. This means trying to avoid working on weekends or vacations and overloading yourself with tight deadlines whenever possible. After all, publishing one extra article a year probably won't change the trajectory of your academic career. It's also always useful to remember the truth in the quote: "Find a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life."
