Nicholas Peppas, a biomedical engineering, chemical engineering and pharmaceutics professor, received what is often referred to as the highest recognition a scientist or engineer in the medical sciences can receive in the country.
Peppas was elected to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences on Monday, becoming the first UT faculty member to receive this honor.
“I am honored but also humbled to be included in the list of these pioneers of medical practice, research and education,” Peppas said. “Since I arrived at the University of Texas I have tried to put together a research and development program in the forefront of medical sciences with major initiatives in the development of new medical devices, design of better treatments for diseases and improvement of the quality of life of our patients.”
According to its Web site, the institute is a nonprofit organization that provides advice about biomedical science, medicine and health. The group works outside the framework of government to ensure scientifically informed analysis and independent guidance.
Peppas is recognized for his contributions to science, including his development of an insulin capsule for those with diabetes to avoid injections, intraocular lenses for cataract patients, improved materials for cartilage replacement and new materials for artificial heart linings.
“In general, the University of Texas at Austin is a great place for biomedical research, and I am proud to work here,” Peppas said. “The results of the biomedical work performed across campus will have a profound effect on the Texas economy, especially the health and improvement of the quality of life of our patients.”
