Biomechanics
Cellular mechanics and mechanobiology
Many cells in tissues are exposed to dynamic mechanical perturbations, which require constant feedback by those cells to maintain tissue function. The Alford Lab uses novel microfabrication and computational methods to better understand this cellular adaptation in development and disease.
Tissue mechanics, aneurysms, and pain
The Barocas research group explores the relationship between tissue architecture and mechanics using multiscale computational models and mechanical experiments. Currently, they’re researching how aneurysms grow and fail, and how spinal load leads to injury or pain.
How cellular functions go awry
The Odde Lab aims to understand basic cellular functions in the context of diseases such as brain cancer and Alzheimer's. The team develops physics-based models that predict cell behavior, then use computer simulation and live cell imaging to identify potential therapeutic strategies.
Bioengineering cancer therapies
Paolo Provenzano’s lab is developing new ways to combat cancer. Approaches include re-engineering tumor microenvironments to remove tumor-promoting cues, enhancing drug delivery, promoting anti-tumor immune responses, and developing next-generation cell-based therapies.
Living valves for growing bodies
Bob Tranquillo’s laboratory develops biologically engineered “off-the-shelf” vascular grafts, heart valves, and vein valves. They’ve shown the material, produced by skin cells, has the capacity to grow, which may transform the way pediatric congenital heart defects are treated.
Pregnancy and soft tissue biomechanics
Kyoko Yoshida's lab studies how soft tissues grow and remodel to support a healthy pregnancy. They combine experimental and computational methods to uncover how mechanical and hormonal changes interact to drive dramatic tissue changes during pregnancy.
Research from our graduate faculty
Mechanisms of impaired mobility
Sommer Amundsen-Huffmaster of the Movement Disorders Lab aims to better understand the mechanisms causing movement problems in people with neurological disorders — and ultimately develop novel therapies and interventions to improve movement function, mobility, and quality of life.
Living biological systems through a new cryo supply chain
John Bischof’s lab is helping make organ banking a reality. By developing new ways to cool and safely rewarm organs, tissues and whole organisms without damage, his research opens the door to saving more lives, lowering transplant wait times, and building a new cryo-supply chain of living biological systems.
Geometry for cells
Meghan Driscoll’s lab aims to understand the functions of cell geometry and dynamics for cancer and immune cells. To do so, the lab combines advanced microscopy with the development of machine learning and computer graphics algorithms.
Imaging-based orthopedic biomechanics
Arin M Ellingson’s lab integrates advanced imaging techniques and computational modeling to investigate spine and joint biomechanics. Our work identifies mechanical drivers of pain and instability to improve diagnosis, guide treatment, and optimize outcomes—primarily in the spine.
Technologies for neurorehabilitation
The goal of Rachel Hawe's lab is to improve arm function in individuals with neurologic impairments including stroke and cerebral palsy. The lab develops novel assessments of sensorimotor impairments using robotics, gaze tracking, and computer vision to better inform interventions.
Brain-body balance control
The research in Jacqueline Palmer’s laboratory aims to understand the neurophysiologic and neuromechanical control of balance and walking and the effects of aging and age-related neuropathology such as stroke.