A method to improve implantable medical devices is the subject of the inaugural lecture in an annual series commemorating three-time UWindsor graduate Raphael Martin Ottenbrite (BSc 1958, MSc 1962, PhD 1967) and his wife Nancy Ottenbrite (BA 1960), a retired public school teacher.

Dr. Ottenbrite, who died in 2021, was a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he founded its Center for Industrial Polymer Research. His career included more than 250 journal publications, more than 30 patents, and five citations from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for his pioneering work relating to high-temperature polymers for spacecraft. He received the UWindsor Alumni Award of Merit in 2015 in recognition of accomplishments which have brought honour to the University.

His VCU colleague Kenneth J. Wynne, a professor emeritus of chemical and life science engineering, will deliver “Toward minimizing adverse events for silicone medical devices” on Friday, April 14.

Dr. Wynne will describe his research into an antimicrobial surface for silicone used in a broad range of medical devices, currently susceptible to adhesion of bacteria or fungi, the growth of biofilms, and other forms of biofouling.

The Dr. Raphael Martin Ottenbrite and Nancy Ottenbrite Lecture Series in Chemistry & Biochemistry is supported by an endowment from the couple, both proud alumni of the University of Windsor.

The event will run 3 to 4 p.m. in Assumption Auditorium, on the second floor of Assumption Hall. Organizers request attendees dress in business casual attire. A reception following the presentation will offer hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

Admission is free but a ticket is required; email ChemBio@uwindsor.ca or visit room 273-1, Essex Hall, to receive a complimentary ticket. More details are available on the Chemistry and Biochemistry website.