Two current University of Florida faculty members from the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and a professor emeritus from the College of Medicine are among a group of eight distinguished inventors who will be inducted into the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame this year.
Christopher Batich, professor of materials science and engineering, is the inventor of a groundbreaking anti-bacterial surface treatment material known as Bioguard® that is used as an advanced wound dressing and bacterial barrier in burn units and nursing homes throughout the United States. He holds 55 U.S. patents.
“Dr. Batich’s contributions to science and commercialized technology has seen worldwide integration into hospitals and care units,” said Michele Manuel, chair of UF’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering. “This award truly recognizes the importance of his years of research and its significant impact on society. Dr. Batich, as an active creator of inventions, represents and embodies all of the wonderful attributes of this award. We couldn’t be more delighted of his most-deserving induction into the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame.”
Christine Schmidt, professor and chair of UF’s J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, is known for her prominent contributions to biomaterials science and tissue engineering. She is the creator of the Avance® Nerve Graft that has improved the lives of numerous patients suffering from peripheral nerve damage. She holds 19 U.S. patents.
“Dr. Schmidt’s pioneering work in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and biomaterials has greatly impacted the well-being of society and promises to further promote the development of products that improve patient care,” said David Norton, UF’s vice president for research. “She is most deserving of induction to the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame.
Nicholas Bodor, founder and CEO of Bodor Laboratories in Miami and UF professor emeritus of medicinal chemistry, is a leader in techniques for developing more effective, less toxic drugs, including treatments for inflammation, ophthalmic conditions and multiple sclerosis. He holds over 160 U.S. patents.
The 2020 class of inventors is scheduled to be formally inducted at a gala ceremony in Tampa in September. The inductees were selected after a statewide nomination process and review by the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame selection committee. Collectively, the 2020 inductees hold more than 386 U.S. patents.