Popular Science magazine recently named Boston University professor Tejal Desai one of its 10 most brilliant scientists for her research in tissue engineering.

Desai, who has developed a microscopic device that delivers regular insulin doses when implanted in rats, recently came to BU from the University of Illinois as part of the Whitaker Foundation’s $14 million grant to enhance BU’s Biomedical Engineering Department.

Since a phone call told her about the award, Desai said she has received lots of press coverage, including an interview with CNN, and has enjoyed seeing the award process.

Kenneth Lutchen, Biomedical Engineering Department chairman, said Desai’s work will lead to the first major breakthroughs in creating an artificial pancreas and have a long-range impact on the field.

‘In addition to scientific work, [Professor Desai] is a fantastic faculty member,’ Lutchen said. ‘She is involved in student activities and is an excellent teacher. I jumped out of my seat when I heard the news.’

Desai teaches advanced undergraduate physiology and tissue engineering, and said she is glad she came to BU.

‘So far, I’ve loved my time at Boston University,’ Desai said. ‘The bioengineering department has been fabulous.’

Lutchen said he feels the award is well deserved, as Desai has emerged as one of the world’s leading biomedical scientists to develop microscopic drug-delivery devices.

‘In 10 years, some promising young student will be labeled the next Tejal Desai,’ Lutchen said.

The microscopic devices are meant to improve or replace physiological functions and are part of a field that did not exist 10 years ago. Lutchen said time and development issues, such as waiting for Food and Drug Administration approvals, can hinder the field’s evolution.

According to Popular Science, Desai’s implant is being used by a private company for human use. She developed a layered plastic device that attaches to the intestinal lining and releases medicine after being swallowed.

Her most recent project is working to improve artificial blood vessels that would coax the patient’s own body to grow new vessels and then biodegrade, leaving the new ones behind.

Desai, 31, said her competition for the award consisted of only ‘up-and-coming’ scientists. The magazine’s second annual ‘Brilliant 10’ recognized scientists between 22 and 49 years old.

Desai received her doctorate from the University of California at Berkeley and her bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from Brown University.