Research Forward Podcast | Diego Celdran-Bonafonte

Episode 10 Diego Celdran-Bonafonte

Research Forward

February 10, 2025

01:19:57

Advancing Animal Welfare: The Role of 3D Printing in Modern Surgical Education

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IN THIS EPISODE

In this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Dr. Diego Celdran-Bonafonte, an expert in surgical training and biomedical research, currently an associate veterinary specialist and research assistant professor at the University of Arizona. They explore Dr. Celdran-Bonafonte's innovative work in 3D printing surgical simulators, which provide an ethical and effective alternative for training students without relying on live animals or cadavers.

Dr. Celdran-Bonafonte shares his career journey, from his early days in exotic animal practice in Spain to his current role in the U.S., highlighting his significant projects, including the development of a preclinical animal model for diabetic foot ulcers using mini pigs. The discussion delves into the benefits of 3D printed models in veterinary education, emphasizing their role in enhancing the 3Rs (Replace, Reduce, Refine) in lab animal science.

The conversation also touches on the challenges and future directions of 3D printing in surgical training, with Dr. Celdran-Bonafonte advocating for the broader adoption of these models to improve animal welfare and training efficiency. This episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of technology and veterinary science, showcasing the potential for innovation in ethical research practices.

About Dr. Diego Celdran-Bonafonte

Dr. Diego Celdran-Bonafonte is a Veterinary Specialist in the University Animal Care Department, at the University of Arizona. He is originally from Spain, earning his veterinary degree, a master’s in health sciences research, and a PhD in veterinary medicine from the University of Extremadura. Before relocating to the US, Dr. Celdran-Bonafonte worked at the renowned Minimally Invasive Surgery Center Jesus Uson, where he led the Animal Modeling Unit and directed multiple research projects, teaching courses, and regulatory preclinical studies. In 2014, Dr. Celdran joined the University of Arizona, where he held various roles, including positions as a Research Assistant Professor in the College of Medicine, with the Department of Medicine (Nephrology) and the Department of Surgery (Cardiothoracic Surgery). His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship led him to earn an MBA from the Eller College of Management in 2020, further enhancing his ability to bridge the gap between research and practical application.

Dr. Celdran is an expert in laboratory animal medicine and surgery, boarded by the European College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ECLAM), where he serves on the Council. He is also an active member of ESLAV and AALAS, and since early 2024 he has been a part of the Board of Directors of the International Association of Colleges of Laboratory Animal Medicine (IACLAM), where he continues to contribute to work for the advancement of laboratory animal medicine on a global scale.

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