Dimitris Boufidis

About Dimitris Boufidis

That\'s me in a nutshell: I’m a Bioengineering Ph.D. student at the University of Pennsylvania, working on biohybrid neural interfaces, living electrodes, and bioelectronic tissues. Co-advised by Dr. Kacy Cullen and Dr. Flavia Vitale, my research bridges nanomaterials and tissue engineering to push the boundaries of neurotechnology Penn, I’ve served as the elected Engineering Ph.D. Representative to the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GAPSA), Chair of the Bioengineering Research Symposium for three consecutive years—organizing the department’s largest annual event—and as Recruitment Chair for incoming Ph.D. students. I’m a board member of the Graduate Association of Bioengineers (GABE) and received the 2024 Outstanding Service Award from the School of Engineering. As Science Diplomacy Chair of the Penn Science Policy and Diplomacy Group (PSPDG), I lead initiatives that connect STEM research with global policy and cooperation.Previously, I studied Bioengineering at the University of Sheffield (UK) on a full scholarship, graduating top of my class and receiving the 2022 Chancellor’s Medal. My undergraduate research on 3D-printed flexible bioelectronics sparked my passion for translational neuroengineering. I also worked as an R&D Engineer and chaired Sheffield\'s Students\' Union governing body, overseeing a £10M+ budget.Recognized as a top 100 Leader of Tomorrow (GS2020, Cambridge UK), the UK’s Student Employee of the Year (2020), and a TEDx Speaker, my outreach has been featured in The Guardian and BBC News.Let’s build something bold. Reach out if you\'re curious about science, policy/diplomacy, or collaboration!

Experience

1. Science Diplomacy Chair

   Penn Science Policy & Diplomacy Group

   Jul 2024 — Present

   As the of the Penn Science Policy and Diplomacy Group (PSPDG), I lead the development and execution of our educational programming and #ScienceDiplomacy curriculum for the academic year. My role involves designing and managing workshops, seminars, and training sessions that equip STEM PhD students with the skills and knowledge to bridge the gap between scientific research and global policy-making. We provide members with access to a network of experts and resources, enhancing their ability to pursue careers at the intersection of science, global affairs, and policy development. I actively forge and maintain relationships with embassies in Washington DC, as well as with leading scientists, diplomats, and scientific advisors to ambassadors and elected officials. These connections facilitate opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth in the fields of science diplomacy and policy advocacy. We also partner to organize high-impact events that bring together students and professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering meaningful dialogue and international collaboration in science diplomacy and policy-making.

Education

• De La Salle​ College, Thessaloniki

  Elementary, Senior and High School

  2006 — 2018

• The University of Sheffield

  Bachelor of Engineering

  2018 — 2022

• Nanyang Technological University

  Exchange student @NTU Singapore 🇸🇬

  2019 — 2019

• University of Pennsylvania

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

  2022