EBM Interview: Dr. Fan SUN

His Research topics:

• Biomedical alloy design & optimization strategies (Ti, Zr, NiTi, CoCr, Fe, Zn)
• Metastable alloys enhanced by twinning and phase transformations
• Cardiovascular stents R&D
• In-situ characterizations SEM/EBSD/TEM
• Database & AI development based on patient-explanted stents

Here is the interview we did with him

1. Could you briefly introduce your current research field?

My research focuses on metallic biomaterials and devices, specifically on their mechanical/corrosion properties for short- and long-term interactions with the body. My projects involve developing new titanium alloys, zirconium alloys, and bioresorbable alloys for the next generation of vascular stents and other implants. The work encompasses alloy design, characterization, and manufacturing, as well as the development of databases and artificial intelligence to study explanted stents from human patients.

2. What obstacles or difficulties have you encountered in your research work? How did you overcome these difficulties?

Funding is always a major factor that limits the scale and depth of research. Currently, I have secured funding from various public sources in France, as well as through partnerships with industrial R&D across Europe. However, challenges related to manpower and team building persist, as they represent significant costs and add uncertainty to the research.

3. What attracted you to join the BAM editorial Board team?

The BAM Editorial Board possesses comprehensive expertise in nearly all aspects of biomaterials, particularly bioactive ones, thanks to the exceptional qualifications of its members from around the world.

4. What are your expectations for the future development of Bioactive Materials and its promotion of related fields?

Topics on AI for new material design and predictive models for implant/material outcomes in patients would be a valuable addition, complementing classic and systematic research, especially for readers with less background in materials science.

5. What is your greatest hobby outside of scientific work?

Culture & Technology

6. How do you balance scientific research work and personal life?

High efficiency is essential, as working hours in France are strictly limited.

7. What do you think is the most important quality for researchers?

Integrity & Creativity

8. What advice do you have for young scholars who are determined to engage in scientific research?

Focusing more on long-term goals.