Current Title and Department: Candidate Dr. biol. hum., Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, University of Ulm

Current Employer: Ulm University Medical Centre, Ulm, Germany

Undergraduate Degree, University: Bachelor of Science, University of Ulm, Germany (Computational Science and Engineering)

Graduate Degree, University: Master of Science, University of Ulm, Germany (Computational Science and Engineering)

Mentors: Dr.-Ing. Ulrich Simon, Prof. Dr. Lutz Dürselen, PD Dr. biol. hum. Andreas Seitz

Could you describe the path you’ve taken in meniscus research? How did it evolve?
At first glance, my path into meniscus research was not really predetermined. I am a computational engineer by background, and my undergraduate studies focused on general mathematical and engineering problems. However, during my master’s program, my interest turned to the medical field. Under the supervision of Dr.-Ing. Ulrich Simon, I gained valuable experience in bone remodeling simulations and musculoskeletal modeling of the human forearm. Towards the end of my master studies, I started working as a student assistant at the Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics at the University of Ulm. Here I became part of the joint biomechanics research group of Prof. Dr. Lutz Dürselen, which focused on both basic and translational research on the meniscus. This experience showed me the wide variety of opportunities that computational engineers have in the biomedical field and emphasized the enormous potential to contribute to the long-term improvement of patient outcomes. Finally, I started my Ph.D. program focusing on the non-invasive determination of patient-specific material parameters of healthy and degenerated menisci based on MRI loading experiments and inverse finite element analysis with the overall goal of early detection of osteoarthritic changes within the knee joint.

When you started in meniscus research, what was your biggest question? Do you think its answered?
When I started in meniscus research, I was (and still somewhat am) overwhelmed by the uniqueness of the meniscus material, its complex microstructure and inhomogeneous composition, perfectly designed to fulfill its functions within the knee joint. As a computational engineer, this immediately raised the question of how such a complex, multi-phase, anisotropic, poro-viscoelastic material could be modeled to represent the real world as closely as possible. Not only at the macroscopic length scale, but also at the microscopic level modeling cell interactions. I think the advancement of constitutive, fibril-reinforced material models has come a long way in the last few decades. Currently, these models can be used to adequately predict the mechanical behavior of the meniscus at the macroscopic level. But, I think there is still a lot of work to be done in terms of patient-specific multiscale models that incorporate pathologies (traumatic events, meniscal degeneration) to fully predict the mechanical response of the meniscus in health and disease.

What collaboration was the most unexpected of your career? How did it impact your work today?
Well, it was not necessarily a collaboration with another research group, but rather working with colleagues in our lab on biological tissue. Especially in the beginning, it was a really fascinating and somewhat unexpected experience to work with cadavers, especially for me as a computational engineer whose main work is sitting (and sometimes standing) in front of a computer creating models. But numerical models need to be calibrated and validated, so experimental results are required. Working with biological tissue in the lab is a constant reminder of the ethical practices and the importance of following good scientific practices.

In your opinion, what is the current open question in the meniscus field right now?
In line with the historically evolved mantra “save the meniscus,” I believe the major challenge in the field is to find the ideal meniscal replacement, especially in the avascular inner zone where the self-healing potential is limited. Given the wide variability in the mechanical properties of human meniscal tissue, the key challenge for tissue engineers is to identify the actual properties that their replacement constructs should mimic. This is especially true when meniscal function is compromised by degeneration. In addition, future applications may focus more on patient-specific meniscal substitutes that are adapted not only in shape and dimensions, but also in their complex material behavior to the prevailing mechanical situation within the entire knee joint. For me personally, however, the biggest question remains whether we can use loaded knee MRI in combination with AI tools to predict the onset of osteoarthritis even before the formation of gross defects, and thus have a reference point for early therapeutic intervention.

What advice would you give investigators who are just starting out in the field?
First of all, it is crucial to establish a basic understanding of the meniscus’ structure and function, biomechanics, and biology. Second, the nature of research involves challenges and setbacks, so maintain resilience and perseverance, learn from failures, adjust your strategies, and keep moving forward. Third, prioritize ethical practices in your projects and always keep in mind the clinical implications of your research. Finally, network with other experts in the field and never be afraid to ask questions! Discussions with others will give you so much new input and ideas for your own work beyond textbook knowledge.

When you’re not in the lab, what do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy spending time outdoors, especially in the mountains, engaging in activities such as hiking, cycling, camping, and snowboarding. Spending time in nature allows me to unwind and recharge away from the demands of the office.

What is the most unusual/unexpected item sitting on your desk right now?
A small fabric puppet of Albert Einstein with his tongue sticking out, dangling from the screen.