Project Summary Bacterial colonization of biomaterials is a common complication that often leads to infection and necessitates implant replacement or removal. Reducing bacterial colonization and proliferation on the implant by changing surface chemistry shows great promising in reducing inherent risk of infection. Recently, modification of implant surfaces using simultaneous photopolymerization and photografting of zwitterionic methacrylate monomers cross-linked hydrogels to cochlear implant and tympanostomy tube biomaterials, reducing protein and cellular adhesion and subsequent fibrosis. For this work, we will further modify this hydrogel coating with a secondary network to enhance mechanical properties while imparting anti-bacterial effects. By utilizing the inherent swelling of the hydrogel, we will incorporate an interpenetrating secondary network containing cationic monomers with anti-bacterial properties. This approach will result in a coating that is both anti-fouling and anti-bacterial, with greater durability than single network systems alone. The overall objective of this research is to synthesize and evaluate the ability of cationic dual network systems to inhibit the growth and adhesion of common infectious bacterial species while maintaining the antifibrotic properties of zwitterionic hydrogel coatings. We hypothesize that cationic monomers in the secondary network will exhibit significant bactericidal properties while preserving the antifibrotic properties of zwitterionic hydrogel coatings. These hydrogel coatings will significantly reduce the complications associated with bacterial colonization and fibrosis of cochlear implant and tympanostomy tube biomaterials. Additionally, this work will provide a deserving researcher from an underrepresented group an exceptional career training and mentorship experience.