Biomechanics and Biomaterials: From Cells to Organisms

This course introduces engineering approaches to understanding and controlling cellular systems with special focus on the interface between mechanics, materials, and biomedical technology. In the first half, we establish a biomechanics framework to understand cells and tissues. In the second half, we learn how to apply this understanding to engineer cell and tissue behavior through biointerface design. Drawing on both historical and cutting edge findings and contemporary challenges, we will explore topics including: mechanobiology, lab-on-a-chip design, biofunctionalization, tissue engineering and biomaterials, and medical device design.