Combs Named Fulbright Scholar
UW Bioengineering’s Kalei Combs has earned the Mid-Career Professional Development Grant from the Fulbright Finland Foundation for the fall of 2026. While a Fulbright Scholar, she will develop a framework for a new doctoral biomedical research exchange between the University of Washington and Tampere University in Finland. Tampere University confers more than a quarter of all engineering and technology degrees in Finland and is recognized for its interdisciplinary culture and international collaborations.
“Our research strengths are well matched, particularly in biomaterials, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, neuroengineering, and the use of technological innovation to advance healthcare access and equity,” Combs said. “And Finland devotes about three percent of its gross domestic product to research and development, with a goal of reaching four percent by 2030.”
“It’s a very strong environment to establish an exchange between our countries – driving innovation and mutual understanding while developing a model for other future exchange programs.”
In her role as Director of Academic Services, Combs has devoted nearly a decade to supporting Bioengineering’s doctoral students, with a focus on improving the research experience, expanding opportunities, and advancing access and collaboration.
Combs will work with faculty, students, and staff at both universities during her time at Tampere University. After establishing their mutual goals and expectations, she will lead the development of a preliminary structure of a doctoral research exchange, including eligibility criteria, mentorship plans, and evaluation metrics. She will also explore funding sources for the program’s ongoing sustainability and draft a memorandum of understanding for the institutions to consider.
“We are delighted to welcome Kalei Combs to the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology at Tampere University. This Fulbright-supported visit offers a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration between our universities and to strengthen doctoral-level exchange in biomedical research. With a vibrant community across medicine, life sciences, data science, and health technology, we look forward to fruitful cooperation,” said Seppo Parkkila, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology at Tampere University.
“We also extend our sincere thanks to the Fulbright Finland Foundation for its continued and impactful support of scientific exchange and collaboration between the United States and Finland – partnerships that reflect our shared values and commitment to advancing knowledge, innovation, and education, and which play a vital role in fostering lasting academic and societal connections.”