Research thrusts
Researchers in the School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering applies engineering principles and methods to understand, define and solve problems in medicine, physiology and biology. Through our research, SBHSE seeks to transform society through developing use-inspired technologies and getting those technologies into use through entrepreneurship. By its nature, our research is inherently multidisciplinary and the potential impact is global. The faculty in SBHSE has a wide range of research expertise and research interests and is particularly strong in the following research areas.
Bioimaging
Our imaging faculty work on developing new imaging techniques and contrast agents that target specific pathologies, creating translational imaging technologies, and using novel MRI phase mapping methods to measure tissue electrical properties. They collaborate closely with local medical centers across Phoenix, the Magnetic Resonance Research Center at ASU, and the Keller Center for Imaging Innovation at Barrow Neurological Institute.
Biosensors and Bioinstrumentation
Our biosensing and bioinstrumentation faculty focus their attention on research diagnostics for monitoring human and environmental health. They build microelectromechanical systems for better neural signal recording and drug delivery, and devices for interacting in real time with biological systems.
Molecular, Cellular and Tissue Engineering
Our molecular, cellular and tissue engineering faculty focus on novel biomaterials for rebuilding damaged tissue, molecular and cellular therapies, and localized drug delivery systems for hard-to-treat cancers
Neural Rehabilitation Engineering
Our neural faculty work on modeling and simulation of neural systems to gain insight into neural function, neural signal acquisition and analysis, and the development of specialized technology to evaluate and treat individuals with neural and biomechanical pathologies.
Synthetic Biology and Systems Bioengineering
The field of synthetic and systems bioengineering is based on the premise that living systems are modular, and thus, able to be engineered. This idea has spurred a new movement that has made a substantial impact on molecular and cell biology. In regard to basic research, synthetic and systems biology takes inspiration from the philosophical reflections of Feynman, i.e., “what I cannot create, I do not understand.” In SBHSE, we design genetically encoded information and cell micro environments to gain a deeper understanding of living things as well as to generate useful products, such as advanced medical treatments. Here, you will find research and coursework in engineered gene networks, policy and governance, biological network modeling, and biomaterials for multicellular systems.