NIAMS and TRISH/NASA Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Virginia Commonwealth University
Evan Buettmann is a TRISH/NASA Postdoctoral Fellow at Virginia Commonwealth University with Prof. Henry Donahue, where he investigates how simulated microgravity and osteocyte gap junction communication impact bone fracture healing. His previous work in orthopaedic surgery and biomedical engineering at WUSTL, guided by Prof. Matthew Silva, explored the dispensability of VEGFA from different osteolineage cells during fracture repair. He completed his undergraduate studies at University of Missouri, where he worked in Prof. Sheila Grant’s Lab, developing novel biomaterials for hernia repair. Dr. Buettmann aims to use genetic, biological, and computational bone loading models to better determine how mechanical factors regulate musculoskeletal regeneration. This insight will inform rehabilitation and drug-based approaches to bolster tissue recovery post-injury. Dr. Buettmann is a passionate advocate for science communication and mentorship. He co-founded the ORS Social Media Committee, chairs the ISFR Communication Committee, guest lectures on biomechanics, and refines his mentoring skills through NSF-CIRTL STEM Pedagogical training. Dr. Buettmann’s work has been recognized with multiple awards and honors, including an ORS Collaborative Exchange Grant, IUPUI Muscle-Bone Meeting Young Investigator Award, TRISH/NASA postdoctoral fellowship and NIH NIBIB T32 predoctoral fellowship.