International Search on for Bioelectrics Center Director
September 20, 2017
Andrei Pakhomov
While an international search is on to fill the top position at the Frank Reidy Research Center for Bioelectrics at Old Dominion University, the focal point of the center — understanding fundamentals in the field — haven't changed.
Andrei Pakhomov was recently appointed interim director of the Frank Reidy Center while the search for a permanent director is underway and expected to be concluded in the next year.
The center focuses on the applications of high intensity electrical nanosecond pulses, which can be used in a variety of medical and biotechnology fields. The center is exploring how to use the pulses to kill tumors, stimulate nerve cells, and defibrillate the heart, Pakhomov said.
Although development of medical applications are an important function of the center, fundamental understanding of bioelectrics will continue to be the focus of the center's work going forward.
"A deep understanding of the fundamentals leads to the eventual successful application," Pakhomov said.
Research centers can also be the driving force behind science at the university as a whole, Pakhomov said.
"Our Center plays a leading role in bioelectrics research. In turn, strong research attracts strong students and opportunities", he said.
More than 350 members of the international bioelectrics community will join the university's researchers in late September during the Second World Congress on Electroporation in Norfolk.
"It's an accomplishment for the university, the center and Norfolk, and an honor to host the event," Pakhomov said.
Internationally, some bioelectrics researchers use electroporation in food decontamination, energy production and extraction of juices. Although it's not been a focus of ODU research, it is a possibility in the future, Pakhomov said.
"Bioelectrics is a great example of how fundamental research can lead to successful commercialization," said Morris Foster, vice president for research at the University. "We look to the center to continue to set the pace for translational research at ODU."
Recently, the center's work on health-related fundamentals helped lead to the largest commercialization success in the University's history through the formation of Pulse Biosciences. The practical applications of the research include cancer and wound therapy.
Once the new director is hired, Pakhomov plans to return full-time to research, including a five-year, $7.5 million Department of Defense Multidisciplinary University Research grant. ODU is a leading organization of this multi-university project focused on mechanisms of nanoelectropulse-induced signalizing and their use to stimulate and control biological systems.