My research group investigates colloids and membranes with a focus on biomedical applications. Our strength is design and engineering of novel microbubble formulations for medical imaging, drug delivery, gene therapy and blood gas delivery. Microbubbles are stabilized spherical gas particles that are smaller than a red blood cell. For example, we are researching (1) targeted microbubbles for ultrasound molecular imaging, with a focus on evaluating tumor perfusion and angiogenesis and reducing the immunogenicity, (2) surface engineered microbubbles for multi-modality imaging, (3) multi-functional microbubbles for image-guided drug delivery, and (4) microbubble foams for intravenous oxygen delivery. We also specialize in colloidal and interfacial science aspects of microbubbles and other emulsions. For example, we are researching (1) the mechanical properties of the thin lipid film that coats microbubbles, emulsions and lung alveoli, and (2) factors that affect emulsion stability.
BMEN 1000 - Exploring Biomedical Engineering
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2021 / Spring 2022 / Spring 2023
Introduces the biomedical engineering profession, curriculum, career pathways, ethics and responsibilities, and research opportunities. Academic and industry speakers are invited to address various biomedical engineering topics.
BMEN 2000 - Introduction to Biomedical Engineering
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2019 / Spring 2020 / Spring 2021 / Fall 2021
Reviews concepts from molecular and cellular biology. Establishes important aspects of human physiology and engineering principles to develop a basic understanding of the biomedical engineering field. Introduces topics such as biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, bioimaging and biotechnology.
BMEN 3010 - Biotransport
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021 / Fall 2022 / Fall 2024
An introduction to the modeling of complex biological systems using principles of transport phenomena and biochemical kinetics. Includes the conservation of mass and momentum; rheology of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids; steady and transient diffusion in reacting systems; dimensional analysis; homogeneous versus heterogeneous reaction systems; and physiological transport systems, including receptor-mediated endocytosis and oxygen and drug transport. Recommended restriction: for students in fifth semester of Biomedical Engineering curriculum or higher.
BMEN 6950 - Master's Thesis
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2021 / Summer 2021 / Spring 2023
Work with a faculty advisor on a masters thesis.
MCEN 3022 - Heat Transfer
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018
Studies fundamentals of heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation. Emphasizes problem formulation and selection of appropriate solution techniques. Provides applications to modern engineering systems, which may include energy, biological, environmental, and materials engineering problems.