My PhD research at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School (USA) focuses on bioengineering within the field of reconstructive organ and tissue transplantation. Patients requiring these transplants often face severe disfigurements for which few to no alternative reconstructive options exist. More specifically, I investigate genetically modifying organs to improve postoperative outcomes, for example by allowing them to sense and treat rejection after transplantation. While my primary focus is on allotransplantation, it's important to note that these techniques also have relevance in auto-transplantation, a key aspect of reconstructive surgery. Furthermore, my research involves exploring advanced techniques like machine perfusion and supercooling to improve organ preservation and quality. These methods have the potential to streamline treatment processes and enhance patient outcomes in reconstructive surgery.