Katrina Knight, Ph.D., MWRI BIRCWH Scholar, Assistant Professor, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh

Katrina M. Knight, PhD received her PhD (2017) in Bioengineering from the University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA) and a B.S. (2009) in Biochemistry from Claflin University (Orangeburg, SC), a Historically Black College and University. Prior to joining the Bioengineering Faculty as an Assistant Professor and a BIRCWH (Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women’s Health Training Program) Scholar in May 2021, Dr. Knight was a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Magee-Women’s Research Institute and Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship Program (Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences). Dr. Knight’s research focuses on understanding the pathogenesis of pelvic organ prolapse (prolapse), a common gynecologic condition characterized by the unnatural descent of the pelvic organs into the vaginal canal. Dr. Knight is particularly interested in elucidating the biomechanical and biological mechanisms that lead to complications associated with the use of synthetic mesh to treat prolapse. With this knowledge, Dr. Knight is developing a novel device specifically tailored for prolapse repairs. Ultimately, Dr. Knight’s research aims to improve the lives of women with pelvic floor disorders through the development of novel and innovative treatments while concomitantly increasing the number of minorities pursuing an education and career in STEM. She is the Director of CampBioE 2.0, a dynamic day camp that engages scholars (2nd-12th grade) in the wonders of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEM+) through exposure to cutting edge, hands-on activities related to bioengineering and STEM+. Outside of academia, Dr. Knight has a strong passion for giving back to her community. She is the Chief Engineering Officer and co-founder of Your Village Is My Village Incorporated, a 501c3 non-profit organization that aims to positively transform communities through mentoring and the education of at-promise youths.

Learn more about her on LinkedIn at:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-knight-phd-976a2145/