#UKSB2026 Travel Bursary Winner Reza Sair
By Reza Sair, Imperial College London
The UK society for Biomaterials (UKSB) conference 2026 was a fantastic opportunity for a first year PhD student, such as myself, to experience a wider scientific community coming together to discuss novel research and technologies. Thanks to the UKSB travel award, I was able to be a part of this conference and present a scientific poster on zinc incorporation into bioactive glass, to enhance the antimicrobial properties in orthopaedic applications.
The opening keynote presentation on dental filling materials suitable for children, highlighted both the scientific challenges of developing new biomaterials but also the difficulty of clinical translation and regulatory approval. This was followed by panel conversations on inclusive research, patient involvement and a debate about the need and excessive use of animal testing. Together, these experiences highlighted to me that good scientific research goes beyond discovery in the lab; it is also about communicating ideas and thinking about the people that we are trying to help. A focus on the big picture whilst also discussing how to navigate the hoops and hurdles of regulation, was an area of the field which I had previously given little consideration.
On top of the panels and debates, I also attended a wide range of presentations on topics such as drug delivery, biofabrication and infection control, learning a great deal about biomaterials research beyond my field of expertise in the process. In presenting my research I also faced challenging and thought-provoking questions that will continue to shape my research going forwards.
I am extremely grateful to the UKSB for awarding me a Travel Award and making it possible for me to attend the conference. I look forward to attending future events, including the next annual conference in London.
