Engineering Tumor Microenvironments on a Chip to Model Early Events in Breast and Ovarian Cancer Metastasis Susan Leggett, PhDAssistant ProfessorDepartment of BioengineeringUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Abstract:The tumor microenvironment is a dynamic and multifaceted ecosystem in which biochemical and mechanical cues jointly regulate cell behavior, tumor heterogeneity, and disease progression. My lab develops engineered “tumor-on-a-chip”...

Predicting Thrombus Formation, Deformation, and Embolization: A Look at Devices, Stroke, and Deep Vein Thrombosis Keefe Manning, PhDProfessor of Biomedical Engineering and SurgeryDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringPennsylvania State University Abstract:Thrombosis remains a significant clinical issue manifesting in heart attacks and strokes but also challenges the success of cardiovascular devices. Given the complex process associated with thrombosis,...

The Entrepreneurial Journey of EnsoData Co-Founders Chris Fernandez BMEBS’14, MS’15; Ensodata Co-founder, Executive Chairman and Chief Research OfficerNick Glattard BMEBS’14, MS’15; EnsoData Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Hear firsthand how two BME alumni turned a bold idea into a nationally recognized startup. Nick Glattard (BMEBS ’14, MS ’15) and Chris Fernandez (BMEBS ’14, MS ’15),...

Failing Fabulously: Vogue Challenging Niche Large-Scale Bone Repair Research Missteps into Broad Impact Innovations Sara McBride-Gagyi, PhDAssistant ProfessorDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringThe Ohio State University Abstract:Research rarely unfolds exactly as planned. Despite careful preparation and well-designed protocols, unexpected outcomes — and outright failures — are an inevitable part of experimental science and engineering. Yet these challenges...

Fantastic forces and where to find them Julien Berro, PhDAssociate Professor of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, and of Cell BiologySchool of MedicineYale University Abstract:Mechanical forces are central to countless biological processes in health and disease. However, despite their ubiquity and importance in cellular processes, our understanding of biomechanical forces lags far behind our understanding of...

The Sound of Science: Engaging the Public with Big Ideas Anne Strainchamps and Steve PaulsonCreators and Hosts of “To the Best of Our Knowledge”Wisconsin Public Radio Abstract:Anne Strainchamps and Steve Paulson have spent decades fostering curiosity and conversation in a rapidly changing world. Currently, they are collaborating with the “Island of Knowledge” think tank in...

Prototyping with Purpose Lennon Rodgers, PhDDirector, Grainger Engineering Design Innovation LabCollege of EngineeringUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison Abstract:What do high-speed motorcycles, zoo animal feeders, spacecraft and medical supplies have in common? They...