Reed Ayers

A strategic thinker in the application of engineering principles to medical challenges, Reed Ayers is an Assistant Professor-Research at the University of Colorado Denver - Anschutz Medical Campus, where he contributes significantly to the General Operations department. With a robust academic foundation, he earned both his Ph.D. and M.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder, equipping him with the expertise to tackle complex interdisciplinary problems. Dr. Ayers's research is at the intersection of engineering and medicine, focusing on the critical issues of orthopedic device failure, corrosion, and biofilm formation. His work is pivotal in understanding the mechanisms that lead to the degradation of medical implants, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes and device longevity. His innovative approach combines theoretical insights with practical applications, aiming to enhance the safety and efficacy of orthopedic devices. Currently, Dr. Ayers is the Principal Investigator for two prestigious NIH grants. One of these projects delves into the role of polymicrobial biofilms in implant corrosion and the subsequent development of metallosis, a condition that can lead to severe complications in patients with metal implants. This research is vital for developing strategies to mitigate biofilm formation and its detrimental effects on medical devices. The second NIH-funded project under Dr. Ayers's leadership examines the anelastic strain response of spine rods in a biologic environment. This study aims to understand how these devices behave under physiological conditions, which is essential for designing more resilient and reliable spinal implants. His work in this area is expected to contribute significantly to the field of orthopedic surgery, offering insights that could lead to the development of next-generation implants. Dr. Ayers's contributions to the field are not only academic but also practical, as he collaborates with industry partners to translate his research findings into real-world applications. His dedication to advancing the field of orthopedic engineering is evident in his commitment to both research and teaching, where he mentors the next generation of engineers and scientists. Through his work, Dr. Ayers continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the integration of engineering and medicine.