Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Biomodelling - Focus area
This area is focused on the physiology of the human body from the cellular and the organ level to the whole body. Tissue biomechanics, both solid and fluid mechanics, as well as the material properties of tissues are studied in detail.
Current research shows that biomechanical models of treatment methods like hip joint replacements, cardiovascular device design and positioning, and design of environments for cell growth, are being used in both industry and at hospitals.
Graduate level courses within this area of study educates students within physiology, solid and fluid mechanics, orthopaedic biomechanics, sports physiology, rehabilitation, and the mechanical properties of prostheses and their interaction with the human body. Students work with solid mechanical models for characterization of different tissue types as well as quantitative models of physiological transport phenomena such as blood flow in the circulation and diffusion through the vessel walls and cell membranes. This includes mathematical analysis of how cells and various tissue types deform in response to different biomechanical as well as biochemical stimuli, and how this affects the normal function of the body.
The goal is to develop equipment, materials and methods for protection and preservation of organ function, and enabling restoration of lost body functions.
Recommended foundation courses are: