Laura Bouret, MSc

Current Title and Department: PhD candidate, Biomedical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Canada
Undergraduate Degree: BSc Material Science, UTT Engineering school, France
Graduate Degree: MSc, Biomedical Engineering, École nationale supérieure des mines de Saint-Étienne, France

Who do you consider your mentors?
My supervisors Derek Rosenzweig (McGill University) and Stephan Reuter (Polytechnique Montréal). I am very grateful for their guidance and mentorship, not only in the technical aspects of my research, but also in shaping my career path and providing support through both academic and professional challenges.

What is your specific area of interest in research?
I am primarily interested in biofabrication techniques and model development. My work focuses on creating representative in vitro systems using 3D bioprinting to study interactions between cancer cells and their surrounding microenvironment – particularly in bone metastases – and to test localized, innovative treatments within these models. I aim to develop tools that improve the predictive value of preclinical studies and support their transition to early-stage therapeutic evaluation.

What are you currently working on?
I am currently developing a cold plasma treatment strategy for metastatic cancer in the bone. Using bioprinted coculture models of cancer cells and human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, I am optimizing treatment parameters to achieve selective cytotoxicity – targeting cancer while preserving surrounding stroma. My current focus is on understanding the oxidative pathways involved in this selectivity.

What has been the biggest challenge for you lately in your research?
My biggest recent challenge has been organizing the in vivo phase of my next study, including preparing the animal protocol for ethics review, securing approval, completing required trainings, building a second cold plasma setup, and translating the in vitro parameters to the in vivo context.

What projects are you looking forward to?
I’m excited to see the outcomes of the in vivo experiments and to continue advancing the complexity of my bioprinted model by incorporating endothelial cells and designing a new bioink.

What changes would you like to see in the future of the orthopedic research community?
I would like to see the orthopedic research community continue advancing the development and adoption of complex biomimetic models – such as advanced in vitro or ex vivo spine and disc systems – to better replicate tissue environments. While in vivo studies remain essential, these tools can improve the relevance of preclinical research and help reduce the number of animals needed.

What do you like to do outside of your work?
I love hiking, trekking, and climbing. I enjoy going on adventures, cycling around islands, traveling to unfamiliar places, and trying new food. I also enjoy spending quality time with family and close friends.

What is the last book you read?
The last book I read was the third edition of Integrated Chinese. I try to pick it up when I have time, since I’m learning Mandarin. Otherwise, I enjoy reading all kinds of novels, including fantasy, classic literature, thrillers, and reflective fiction. One of my favorites is The Alchemist for its reflection on following one’s path and dreams.

What is the most unusual/unexpected item sitting on your desk right now?
A spine-shaped candle that our team won during the trivia night at the ORS PSRS research symposium in November 2024. It now sits between my houseplants and is a fun reminder of the creativity and diversity of our research community.