The inspiration behind A/Prof Dargaville’s research is the development of new polymers and fabricated devices to help solve a number of important biomedical challenges. He has published 81 papers including 4 book chapters and made important contributions to the field of materials science and polymer chemistry. His areas of expertise include surface modification of polymers (PhD studies), effects of high energy radiation on polymers (post-doctoral position), synthesis of poly(2-oxazoline)s, biomaterials as implant devices, hydrogels for 3D cell culture and drug delivery devices (all part of current position at QUT).

Tim's skills include polymer synthesis (free radical and cationic mechanisms), polymer characterisation (a full suite of spectroscopic and analytical techniques), cell toxicity assays (e.g. to measure cytocompatibility of polymers with cells), and in vivo and ex vivo integration (using animal and ex vivo skin models to test biomaterial performance, integration and immune response). He is a consultant to hospitals, government laboratories and large/small companies in the areas of materials testing and new formulations.  Very recently, Tim has contributed to an Australian Diabetics Research Foundation project aimed at delivering pancreatic islets to treat type I diabetes by developing a polymer scaffold capable of enhancing blood supply to the islets and improving their viability.