Funded Research

 

1.    Mathematical Modeling of Biological and Biomedical Engineering Processes (Role: Co-PI, PI: Katie Evans ) This project integrates mathematical modeling and feedback control design towards the development of a predictive model of the amount of a nano-therapeutic agent that reaches a tumor site based on real-time estimates of drug bioavailability. This lays the groundwork for the design of a computational feedback controller that will be used to noninvasively measure and regulate drug concentration in the body. 9/15/2010 to 9/14/2011, National Science Foundation $100,000.

2.    Optical Instrument for the Real-time Estimation of In Vivo Nanoparticle Concentration” (PI: D.P. O'Neal) The application of pulse spectrophotometry to provide control feedback of nanoparticle-based cancer therapeutics during treatment. 7/1/2009 to 6/31/2012, Louisiana Board of Regents: Industrial Ties Research Subprogram (LEQSF(2009-12)-RD-B-07; w/NSF EPSCOR), $326,255.

3.    The seamless detection and treatment of cancer with near-infrared absorbing nanoparticles  (PI: D.P. O'Neal - Transferred 8/31/2005) Department of Commerce/NIST/Advanced Technology Program 70NANB4H3040 10/1/2004 to 6/31/2007 $2,000,000.

4.    Nanoshell-based detection of beta-amyloid for Alzheimers disease (PI: D.P. O’Neal-Transferred 8/31/2005) NIH NIA STTR Phase I 1 R41 AG025586-01 9/30/2004 to 8/31/2006 $428,066.

5.    Device for the activation of nanoparticle-based cancer therapies. Responsibility for all technical aspects of the project, including optimizing optical instrumentation for delivering laser energy to both superficial and deep seated tumors, and for the photon propagation modeling of the thermal therapy.  (PI: D.P. O’Neal - Transferred 8/31/2005) NSF SBIR Phase I DMI-0420022 7/1/2004 to 2/28/2004 $100,000, NSF SBIR Phase II DMI- 0548741 2/15/2006 - 1/31/2008 $500,000.

6.    Nanoshell-based cancer therapy.  Responsibility for all technical aspects of the project optimizing Nanoshell-assisted photo-thermal destruction of subcutaneous tumors in an immune-competent mouse model.  Specific tasks include Nanoshell manufacturing, assessment of bio-distribution and clearance of Nanoshells, optimization of laser delivery and dosimetry, and treatment efficacy.  (PI: D.P. O’Neal- Transferred 8/31/2005) NSF STTR Phase I No. DMI-0319962 Nanoshell-based Cancer Therapy 7/1/2003 to 6/30/2004 $99,964, NSF SBIR Phase II DMI-0450484 3/1/2005 to 2/28/2007 $392,281.

7.    Nanoparticle-assisted laser tissue welding.  Responsibility for all technical aspects of the project including the application of an optimized Nanoshell-based solder, laser dosimetry, and wound healing. (PI: D.P. O’Neal) NSF STTR Phase I No. DMI-0319965 Nanoparticle-assisted Laser Tissue Welding 7/1/03 to 6/30/04 $99,957.

 

Funded Educational Projects

 

• National Science Foundation - Louisiana Tech RAPD Senior Design Program (PI: D.P. O'Neal, Co-PI:  Mike Shipp) 9/1/2010 to 8/31/2015 $125,000

• National Science Foundation - Partnerships for Adaptation, Implementation, and Dissemination (PAID): Creating a Culture of Success for Women in Engineering and Science (PI: J. Carpenter, Co-PI: D.P. O’Neal & D. Davis) 9/1/2009 to 8/31/2013 $736,500.

• Louisiana Board of Regents - Preliminary Planning Grant, "Culturing Success for Women in Engineering Education" targeting the NSF ADVANCE Program (PI: D.P. O’Neal) 11/1/2008 to 6/30/2010 $10,000.