Nataliia Shchotkina

I am an Early-Stage Investigator and Postdoctoral Scholar in Bioengineering at the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, University of Oregon. My research program centers on the discovery and translation of biomaterials and human-relevant organoid systems to address unmet clinical needs in musculoskeletal regeneration. My work focuses on two interconnected areas: (1) patient-specific joint-organoid models to investigate early immune–mechanobiological regulation of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), and (2) mechanobiology-guided strategies to restore cartilage function by modulating inflammatory pathways and enhancing endogenous repair.
I integrate synovial fluid biobanking from clinical partners, T-cell–mediated inflammatory models, and advanced biomechanical loading systems to recapitulate injury microenvironments and stratify patient-specific responses. My work employs biochemical assays, flow cytometry, Luminex multiplex profiling, histology, and engineered cartilage tissues to elucidate mechanistic drivers of degeneration and identify reparative targets. In parallel, I translate discoveries toward surgical needs through developing decellularized extracellular matrix scaffolds currently used in complex trauma, burn care, and reconstructive procedures.

My effectiveness as a translational scientist is demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications, clinical deployment of biomaterial technologies, competitive fellowships, and conference leadership roles, including SYIS TERMIS Session Co-Chair and Orthopaedic Research Society reviewer.