Alexey Kamenskiy, PhD, chair of UNO’s Department of Biomechanics and director of the Center for Cardiovascular Research in Biomechanics (CRiB) is a distinguished researcher and educator whose work bridges biomechanics and vascular biology. He focuses on developing innovative medical technologies and treatments that improve vascular health and patient outcomes. His research encompasses the biomechanics of large arteries, the aging of vascular tissues, and the design of advanced medical devices, such as vascular grafts and stents, to treat conditions like aneurysms and peripheral artery disease.
Dr. Kamenskiy’s interdisciplinary approach, involving collaborations with clinicians, engineers, and biologists, has advanced understanding of how vascular tissues change with age and how these changes affect treatment efficacy. Under his leadership, the Vascular Research and Development Lab at UNO has contributed significantly to the field, particularly in vascular graft development, stent design, and the creation of novel imaging techniques for more accurate diagnoses and treatment planning.
In addition to his impactful research, Dr. Kamenskiy
is deeply committed to education and mentorship, preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers to tackle critical challenges in biomechanics and medical innovation. Recognized for his contributions to both research and education, he continues to advance the frontiers of cardiovascular science while fostering an environment of collaboration and discovery.
Dr. Kamenskiy’s research portfolio is robust, with a particular emphasis on understanding and addressing the mechanical properties of vascular tissues, the development of innovative medical devices, and
the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular health. His work has garnered national recognition, and in fiscal year 2024 he achieved a major milestone by securing an $11 million COBRE grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This prestigious grant supports the establishment of the CRiB, a multidisciplinary initiative he directs, aimed at advancing cardiovascular research and fostering collaboration across academic and clinical institutions. To support this effort, the Office of Research and Creative Activity (ORCA) provided additional funding to secure essential equipment for a state-of-the-art tissue analysis core, a critical component of CRiB’s infrastructure that will enable advanced studies and accelerate impactful discoveries in cardiovascular health.
Dr. Kamenskiy remarked, “Biomedical research funds have been essential to advancing my work in vascular biomechanics and developing innovative treatments for cardiovascular diseases. This support facilitates impactful research and helps attract and retain talented students and researchers, strengthening UNO’s role as a leader in biomedical innovation.”
In addition to his success in securing external funding, Dr. Kamenskiy was awarded the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS) Dean’s Excellence in Research Professorship in FY2024, an honor that underscores his exceptional contributions to research and scholarship. To support his continued pursuit of sponsored grants and further his innovative work, the ORCA invested $15,000 in biomedical research funds as part of CEHHS Dean’s Excellence in Research Professorship.
Dr. Kamenskiy’s dedication to advancing cardiovascular research not only elevates UNO’s research enterprise but also has the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of patients worldwide. His work exemplifies the university’s commitment to fostering innovative, high-impact research that addresses critical societal challenges.