• 1.09A Chemistry

Accepting PhD Students

PhD projects

We have positions available in our lab for self-funded PhD students and would be delighted to discuss your interest in a specific area. Please feel free to contact me directly.

Personal profile

Biography

  • Ex Director of Innovation (2022-2024)
  • Associate Professor in Healthcare Technologies (formerly Reader and Senior Lecturer), School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK (08/2020)
  • Cambridge Judge Business, University of Cambridge, UK, Ignite (alumni) course. (07/2019)
  • Lecturer in Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering at the University of East Anglia's School of Pharmacy in Norwich, UK.
  • Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, UK (08/2013). (2017)
  • University of Nottingham Postdoctoral Research Associate, EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine (02/2011)
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate at NUI Galway's Network for Excellence in Functional Biomaterials. (11/2009)
  • PhD student at Nottingham University's School of Pharmacy working on an advanced modular drug and gene delivery system. (10/2006)

Key Research Interests

Dr. Aram Saeed, PhD

Dr. Aram Saeed is an Associate Professor in Healthcare Technologies at the School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia (UEA), Norwich, UK. Since joining UEA in August 2013, he has been at the forefront of research in ocular devices, material innovation, and the 3D printing manufacturing and prototyping of intraocular lenses and intraocular drug delivery systems.

With multidisciplinary expertise spanning polymer science (chemistry), pharmaceutical formulation (pharmacy), and tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (biology and medicine), Dr. Saeed specialises in developing advanced materials for ocular applications. Utilising controlled/living polymerisation techniques such as ROP, RAFT, and ATRP, he designs and synthesises biodegradable, stimuli-sensitive (temperature and pH), and functionalised polymers.

His current research interests include:

  • Ocular Device Innovation: Pioneering the use of 3D printing technologies to manufacture and prototype intraocular lenses and contact lenses, enhancing their functionality and patient compatibility.
  • Intraocular Drug Delivery Systems: Developing advanced platforms for targeted drug delivery within the eye, aiming to improve treatments for ocular diseases.
  • Nanotechnology and Biologics Delivery: Creating colloidal nano- and micro-carriers for the controlled and targeted release of biopharmaceuticals, biopolymers, and therapeutic proteins.
  • Cell and Gene Therapy: Advancing therapeutic approaches through the development of materials that support cell and gene therapy applications.
  • 3D Cell Culture Systems: Engineering complex three-dimensional (3D) in vitro systems to study health and disease, contributing to international efforts in tissue regeneration.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Saeed was a Lecturer in Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering at UEA's School of Pharmacy. He commenced his academic journey as a PhD student at the University of Nottingham's School of Pharmacy in October 2006, focusing on an advanced modular drug and gene delivery system. Postdoctoral research positions followed at NUI Galway's Network for Excellence in Functional Biomaterials (November 2009) and the EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine at the University of Nottingham (February 2011).

In recognition of his commitment to excellence in teaching and research, Dr. Saeed became a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy in 2013. He further expanded his professional development by completing the Ignite programme at Cambridge Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, in July 2019.

Dr. Saeed's contributions continue to drive innovation in ocular device technology, nanotechnology, and regenerative medicine, fostering collaboration and advancing healthcare technologies on an international scale.

Administrative Posts

In addition to his research activities, Dr. Saeed holds several key academic and leadership roles:

  • Course Director, MPharm Pharmacy with a Preparatory Year: Overseeing curriculum development and student progression for the preparatory programme.
  • Course Director, BSc Pharmacology and Drug Discovery with Foundation Year: Leading the foundation programme to equip students with essential skills in pharmacology and drug discovery.
  • Tissue Engineering Special Topic Leader: Guiding students through advanced topics in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being

External positions

Recent Appointee In Polymer Science

1 Oct 20151 Oct 2018