CAREER: Integrated Research and Educational Program in Cellular Mechanics in Biomedical Engineering

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9985338WongThis career project involves the development of an integrated research and educational program in cellular mechanics. The central hypothesis of the research is that cells possess a specific mechanism to sense the compliance of their environment. To test this hypothesis, substrata with defined chemical and mechanical properties will be developed, and the responses of a variety of cell lines will be evaluated using optical microscopy, image processing and data analysis. This work will help advance our understanding of the relative importance of chemical and physical properties of the substrata in governing cell-substrate interactions. The goal of the education plan is to develop an educational thrust in biomaterials science and engineering at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Students will gain hands-on laboratory experience with the various properties of polymeric materials relevant for biomedical applications. Specific education innovations include incorporation of interactive teaching methods adapted from Peer Instruction; critical review of the literature; and interactions with outside representatives from the various aspects of biomedical engineering. Outreach will be achieved via Boston University's Pathways Program, which encourages local high school women to pursue careers in science and engineering.