Dr. Lokesh’s journey showcases the transformative power of passion and dedication. At SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024, his pioneering work in 3D-bioprinting and regenerative medicine took centre stage among the brightest minds in technology and innovation.
From a fascination with the human brain in his school days, Dr. Lokesh pursued studies in Converging Technologies (NBIC) and Cognitive Neuroscience. His academic path led him from the University of Rajasthan to the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), and then to Japan’s National Institute for Material Sciences (NIMS), where he developed a geometrical musical grammar for machine learning. His dedication eventually brought him to the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), where he is developing a prototype 3D-fabrication system that merges 3D bioprinting and electrospinning technology.
At OIST, Dr. Lokesh focuses on creating biomaterials and 3D bioprinting technologies for regenerative medicine. His research aims to support researchers and clinicians by developing new tools and techniques for tissue engineering. He also serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Universidad Integral del Caribe y América Latina (UNICAL) and is involved in entrepreneurial ventures, including co-founding Snd Regenic Biomed Pvt. Ltd., a company dedicated to tissue engineering.
Snd Regenic Biomed Pvt. Ltd. addresses the need to reduce animal use in research and drug testing. Dr. Lokesh and his team developed a specialised biomaterial formulation for neural tissues and the Hybrid Fabrication System (HFS), a novel 3D-bioprinting system that combines 3D bioprinting and electrospinning. This system creates customised 3D biomaterial scaffolds and tissues, crucial for studying neurological diseases, drug testing, and understanding brain function. These advancements also hold promise for repairing damaged neural circuits in conditions such as spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.
SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024, hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government from April 27 to May 26, showcased the latest in sustainable urban technology and innovation. The event featured three main programmes: the Global Startup Programme, the City Leaders Programme, and the Showcase Programme.
The Global Startup Programme, Asia’s largest conference for startups, attracted over 40,000 visitors. It featured exhibits from leading international and domestic startups, large corporations, and venture capital firms. The highlight was the SusHi Tech Challenge, a pitch contest offering substantial prize money and opportunities for startups to present solutions for sustainable urban development.
The City Leaders Programme brought together city leaders from five continents to discuss and develop solutions for global urban challenges, focusing on creating resilient and sustainable urban infrastructures.
The Showcase Programme allowed the public to experience futuristic urban models through interactive exhibits across multiple venues, including the Ariake Arena and the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.
SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 was a success, bringing together innovators, policymakers, and the public to explore and implement sustainable urban solutions. The event underscored the importance of cutting-edge technology and innovative ideas in addressing urban issues and creating a sustainable future.
Dr. Lokesh’s participation in SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 underscored the significance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration in advancing technology for societal benefit. His work in 3D-bioprinting and regenerative medicine exemplifies how innovative solutions can tackle pressing challenges in healthcare and research.
