biomedical innovation capstone project ideas

2020 Biomedical Engineering Capstone Design Projects

Meetme - supporting personalized care for older adults with dementia.

Older adults, especially those with dementia, experience frequent transfers of care, so it is difficult for them to receive personalized care founded on personal connections with caregivers. MeetMe is a website designed to empower older adults to securely share important personality information with transient caregivers to foster a mutual understanding and support better care. MeetMe’s research-backed design process has included several phases of quantitatively analyzing structured feedback gathered directly from older adults at Schlegel Villages to ensure that our prototype meets their needs. 

Team members: Tynan Sears, Mackenzie Wilson, Mikaela MacMahon

CONSTANTIAM

Constantiam is a feedback system that determines the efficiency and safety of exercise technique through the measurement and analysis of weight distribution. Consisting of force sensitive insoles, a data acquisition module, and mobile application, Constantiam provides a user with feedback on their lower body exercise characteristics such as the centre of pressure, symmetry index, and traits of poor form. Constantiam reduces the risk of exercise-related injury, alerts a user of fatigue, and determines ideal weight amounts for lifting.

Team members: Laura Ing, Olivia Lougheed, Karly Smith, and Melissa Rinch

Organ transplantation can significantly extend the life of a pediatric patient. However, the latest advances in support systems for donor hearts fail to accommodate pediatric sizes. HeartAgain aims to bridge this gap by providing state-of-the-art support to hearts ranging from neonate to adult. The system employs normothermic perfusion, a process of supplying an organ with warm oxygenated blood, to transport the heart in a beating state. Integrated biometric monitoring allows otherwise unpredictable transplants by providing real-time insight into heart viability.

Team members: Melissa Yu, Kelsea Tomaino, Cassandra Maxwell, Daphne Walford

Moneta is a cross-platform application that enables tracking and analysis of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia in long-term care homes. It reduces the cognitive workload of personal support workers by streamlining the behaviour observation process. Using Moneta, trends and correlations in behavioural patterns can be quantitatively assessed through entered data. This helps healthcare professionals design interventions to avoid triggers of responsive symptoms, such as removing residents from noisy environments. The overall aim is to improve the wellbeing of individuals with dementia through non-invasive treatments.

Team members: Presish Bhattachan, Ying Quan (Amy) Qiu, Emily Kuang, Stanislava (Stacey)Ilioukhina

Children with developmental speech disorders require face-to-face sessions with speech-language pathologists. However, the long wait times for in-person consultation partnered with the lack of adherence to at-home prescribed speech exercises remain considerable pain points in the field of speech therapy. Phonologix is a mobile application that aims to help young patients with developmental functional speech disorders. Its goal is to increase compliance with clinician prescribed at-home speech exercises, monitor patient speech development, and deliver personalized feedback to facilitate the speech therapy process.

Team members: Isaac Chang, Felix Kurniawan, Ryan Yi Li, Francis Rhee

BURNAWARE: ASSISTIVE DEVICE FOR CUTANEOUS LOSS OF SENSATION FROM DEEP BURN INJURIES

Individuals with deep burn injuries can experience a cutaneous loss of sensation in their hands, leading to potential exposure to harmful stimuli in their environment. BurnAware is an assistive device comprised of a wearable glove and a body-mounted alert mechanism. The glove detects tactile and temperature sensations and necessitates real-time vibratory responses upon proximal contact to noxious stimuli.

Team members: Namrata Sharma, Zhilling Zou, Christina Jean, Pavneet Singh Kapoor.

PillPals is a mobile application targeted to improve medication adherence in a young adult population through promoting self-efficacy in health outcomes. For a patient to be considered completely adherent to a prescription, they must take each dose precisely as prescribed and on time. The less adherent a patient is, the more likely it is that their treatment fails or is ineffective. PillPals utilizes an alarm system packaged with educational and analytical features to promote self-efficacy, and a graded reward system to keep patients engaged.

Team members: Christiaan Oostenbrug; Lucas Van de Mosselaer; William Harvey; Nicolas Iuorio

Retinal cameras are commonly used to diagnose and monitor sight-threatening diseases. In remote and resource constrained areas, clinical grade retinal cameras are often inaccessible which can lead to preventable blindness. Although there are some commercially available portable retinal cameras, they are often expensive or capture low quality images which are not suitable for clinical use. Perceptus aims to design a low cost, portable, smartphone based retinal camera that improves upon the quality of images obtained by existing devices.

Team members: Allison Cole, Angela Lin, Alexander MacLean, Nicole Barritt, Laurel Pilon

Ugandan midwives and nurses working in low-resource maternity wards must currently clean their surgical instruments by a manual and laborious process. Proper compliance with this process is not achieved since limited staff must always prioritize tending to a high number of patients, leading to instrument rust damage and disuse. In partnership with FullSoul, a Canadian non-profit organization equipping these wards with standardized instrument kits, MediClean has developed FullCycle. We present a simplified and integratable solution to automate the cleaning and decontamination process.

Team members: Charly Phillips, Connor Huxman, Maria Valencia, Robyn Klassen, Sam Feng

HAPTYC LABS

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is infant hip instability caused by the abnormal formation of the femoral head and acetabulum. Dislocations are very subtle for detection, and with a lack of physician training, Haptyc Labs is developing a simulator to replicate a real infant's hip to portray different DDH severities. The ultimate goal of this project is to provide physicians this physical simulator as a training module for DDH diagnosis.

Team members: Alyson Colpitts, Mariam Osman, Jan Lau, Areeb Hafiz, Noah Kunej

PHYSIOFIT (GENE)

Up to 70% of patients who undergo physiotherapy programs are non-compliant to at-home exercises. Our project aims to improve compliance to knee osteoarthritis (OA) physiotherapy through the use of IMU-based wearable units integrated with a mobile app. The solution will measure the user's exercise accuracy for certain knee OA exercises (knee flexion/extension, hip abduction/adduction, & squatting) and provide results over the course of the whole physiotherapy treatment.

Team members: Maninder Matharoo, Tilak Gupta, Emad Ahmed, Ilir Lazoja, Arjun Gupta

• Capstone Projects

The Capstone Project is intended to culminate the skills of the BME undergraduate degree. The students are required to take the course and complete the project their senior year. Below are examples of student projects from previous years. 

Class of 2023

Electromyography Guided Video Game Therapy for Stroke Survivors

Students:  Anisa Abdulhussein, Hannamarie Ecobiza, Nikhil Patel, Carter Ung

Advisor:  Dr. Jerome Schultz

A Hybrid in Silico Model of the Rabbit Bulbospongiosus Nerve

Students:  Lilly Roelofs, Anh Tran, Dana Albishah, Hoang Tran, David Lloyd, Zuha Yousuf, Farial Rahman, Laura Rubio

Advisor:  Dr. Mario Romero-Ortega

Highly Specific Vertical Flow-Based Point-of-Care For Rapid Diagnosis of Lupus

Students:  Valeria Espinosa, Lediya Haider, Bao Le, and Christian Pena

Advisor:  Dr. Chandra Mohan

Design and Fabrication of Novel Flexible and Elastomeric   Device for Bladder Neuromodulation  

Students:  Kenneth Nguyen, Laura Rubio, Jessica Avellaneda, Juan Gonzalez

Residual Gastric Stomach Volume via Dye Dilution

Students:  Sean Chakraborty, Tien Tran, Elizabeth Kolb, Elaine Raymond

Remote Tremor Monitoring System

Students:  Mikayla Deehring, Bryan McElvy, Elizabeth Perry, William Walker

Advisor:  Dr. Nuri Ince

BCI Assistance in Simple Hand Movements to Enable IMC/CMC-Based Rehabilitation for Post-Stroke Patients

Students:  Wesley Cherry, Shanzeh Imran, Rami ElHajj, Nivriti Sabhani

Advisor:  Dr. Yingchun Zhang

3D Printing Scaffold for Cardiovascular Tissue Regeneration

Students:  Anaga Ajoy, Kailee Keiser, Aria Shankar, Alexa Truong

Advisor:  Dr. Renita Horton

Electrotactile Stimulator for Modeling Localized Touch in the Hand

Students:  Alan Luu, Raed Mohammed, Anique Siddiqui, and Brendan Wong

CNN-Driven Hand Prosthetic for Neurorehabilitation

Students:  Neftali Garcia, Wajid Masood, Angela Soto

Class of 2022

Skin Blood Flow Based on a Thermal Sensor

Students:  Rumaisa Baig, Aliza Sajid, Kinda Aladdasi, Hira Rizvi, and Eugenia Ponte

3D Printing of Scaffolds for Cardiovascular Tissue

Students:  Ayesha Budhwani, Duc Ho, Dorothy Mwakina, Nicolas Nino

Graphene Electrodes for Body Energy Harvesting

Students:  Sarah Hakam, Hy Doan, Attiya Hussaini, Krishna Sarvani Deshabtotla

COVID-19 Antibodies Detection Using Spike Protein Microarray Chip

Students:  Fariz Nazir, Chinenye Chidomere, Bryan Choo, Jessica Chidomere

Advisor:  Dr. Tianfu Wu

Relating Pressure to fNIRS Optical Signal Quality

Students:  Mautin Ashimiu, Shannen Eshelman, Amanda Reyes, Catherine Tran

Advisor:  Dr. Luca Pollonini and Dr. Samuel Montero Hernandez

Optimization of a Loading Tool for a Novel Cardiac Assist Device (CAD)

Students:  Amie Theall, Barbora Bobakova, Zarmeen Khan, Abigail Janvier

The ExoAssist:  A Soft Exoskeleton Device for Foot Drop

Students:  Alexandru Neagu, Dailene Torres, Loren Thompson, Dylan Creasey

Advisor:  Dr. Jose Luis Contreras-Vidal

Physical Therapy Device for Shoulder Rehabilitation

Students:  Jordyn Folh, Raeedah Alsayoud, Mirren Robison, Xanthica Carmona

Residual Gastric Volume by George’s Dye Dilution Method

Students:  Sarah Aldin, Rita Maduro, Patrick Calderon, Hebah Kafina

EEG-based Control of a Robotic Hand

Students:  Martin Reyes, Regan Persyn, Quynh Nguyen, Bryan Gutierrez

Advisor:  Dr. Yingchun Zhang and Michael Houston

ASD Screening in Children using Machine Learning

Students:  Yalda Barram, Tatiana Barroso, Theresa Pham, and Amy Tang

Advisor:  Dr. Joseph Francis

Optimized PEGDA Hydrogel Miniature Gel Electrophoresis for Genomic Analysis

Students:  Alma Antonette Antonio, Jose Carrion, Lindsey McGill, Sharmeen Shahid

Advisor:  Dr. Metin Akay and Dr. Yasemin Akay

Class of 2021

Project 1: Vital Sign Wristband

Abstract: As most hospitals transition to a digital world in order to streamline medical procedure, our group wanted to streamline the check in process by making a wristband that measures vital signs. We wanted the wristband to measure heart rate, temperature, and blood oxygen, and for this data to be sent to an app. We first decided which sensors to use, and moved forward with the MCP9808 temperature sensor and the MAX30100 sensor for heart rate and blood oxygen. We then assured the MCP9808 worked to our standards by connecting it to a ESP32 microcontroller on a breadboard. The connection and reading of the sensor required Arduino code, which we constructed with online resources. After getting the readings that aligned with our expected values, we followed the same procedure with the MAX30100 sensor. We then ‘pushed’ the data to an app that we constructed using Blynk, an app that is used to read data from microcontrollers. After ‘pushing’ the data to our app, we were ready to start making the wristband by connecting the sensors to the ESP32s, and attaching the connections to a wristband using V elcro. With our final prototype, we were able to wirelessly read heart rate, temperature, and blood oxygen from the Blynk app. To more efficiently assist in hospital applications, a potential future direction for this project would be to add blood pressure as a parameter for the wristband. We would also like the wristband to ID the patient that is wearing it in order to track and assign the data throughout their stay.

Project 2: Development of a low cost method to evaluate mask efficiency

Abstract: Since the start of the pandemic, over 1.5 Billion single use face masks have been used across the globe. Many people have also made and using homemade masks due to convenience or necessity. At the start of the pandemic there was an acute shortage of masks and even now, with the lifting of mask mandates across the United States, we anticipate that masks will still be used by the public for the foreseeable future. Our objective was to develop a fast, low cost reusable method to evaluate the efficiency of face masks and the materials that are used to manufacture them. We believe that consumers could benefit from knowing that masks that they buy or make are useful and will protect them from COVID 19 and future diseases. To accomplish this, we built a self contained unit that works by measuring the efficiency of material by calculating the amount of light reflected by aerosolized salt solution that penetrates masks. The consumer can use their phone to take a picture of the light compartment through the device and upload the result to our website that will give them the efficiency immediately. In future versions we hope to make the process easier by using an inbuilt camera and a single switch to turn the device on and off.

Project 3: Sensor Array for COVID19 Diagnostics

Abstract: The emergence of the COVID 19 pandemic has highlighted the need for reliable and rapid diagnostic tools to aid in community wide contact tracing and monitoring efforts. Early Covid 19 tests relied on either molecular or serological assays, which had long turnaround times and required specialized equipment and personnel. Our goal was to create a diagnostic tool that could provide rapid and accurate patient feedback without the need of special equipment. To this end we employed the use of a metal oxide array, which was composed of four sensors, in order to detect endogenous Volatile Organic Compounds in the breath. These sensors were fabricated and supplied by the Nanodevices and Materials Lab. We developed a comprehensive testing setup involving a Mass Flow Controller, Gas Chamber, Multiplexor, and a Picoammeter with the creation of a Graphical User Interface (GUI) to make the data collection autonomous and efficient. We also devised a pattern recognition algorithm using Principal Component Analysis and K Means Clustering to identify our four target gases based on the sensor array’s response.

Project 4: Microcontroller Based Functional Electrical Stimulator

Abstract: Electrical stimulation is used in various therapeutic applications in medicine, ranging from neuromodulation to functional mapping of the brain. There are still many of these devices that are operated through manual tuning and pressing buttons. Having the ability to control these analog devices from a computer is critical for research and advanced therapy , but this cannot be done The aim of this Capstone Project is to develop a low cost Functional Electrical Stimulator (FES) that can be fully controlled with a microcontroller (Teensy 3.5) connected to a PC through a USB interface. In practice, the system can be used in various scenarios, but the intended application is for delivering non invasive Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES). The hardware was developed using 9 Volt batteries connected to DC DC boosters for power supply and other primary components that include analog switches and transistors. This system is controlled through Arduino IDE and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) developed within MATLAB that allows for ease of manipulation and further development in the future. We have successfully produced a symmetrical, biphasic square wave capable of operating at 60 microsecond pulse widths. We have also demonstrated the capability of producing a biphasic sinusoidal wave with flexible frequency. One future goal of this system is to fuse it with a brain computer interface (BCI) that can drive the FES to improve the rehabilitation of the patients suffering from stroke or spinal cord injury by translating their thoughts to muscle contractions and associated movement.

Project 5: Inclusive System for Image Capture and Rheological Image Analysis for Artificial Microvascular Network

Abstract: Measuring blood flow in capillaries of an Artificial MicroVascular Network (AMVN) device is typically done using a research grade inverted microscope. Research grade microscopes can provide high resolution images but are bulky, unportable, and expensive, which significantly limits the scope of AMVN technology. As an alternative, we have developed an inclusive, portable system that contains all of the necessary hardware to perform the experiment as well as a code to analyze the perfusion rates of the AMVN channels. The system utilizes a camera and magnification lens to simulate the optics of a microscope, but in a more affordable, compact, and user friendly unit. Video captured by the system can easily be transferred to a laptop for analysis. The perfusion rate data produced using our code has yielded reproducible and accurate results comparable to values in previous literature. This inclusive system can be used to perform analysis on a variety of experiments including testing the effect of new storage conditions, additive solutions, novel drugs, and rejuvenation strategies on the rheological properties of red blood cells in vitro. Future work could entail expanding the usefulness of the system to function with various different microfluidic devices.

Project 6: Voice Activated Alarm System for Patients with Limited Mobility

Abstract: Current hospital alert systems require a mechanical input, most commonly the push of a button Patients with mobility issues such as quadriplegics are unable to perform this input Most solutions to this problem require proximity and are prone to displacement, such as clipping the button to patients’ gowns to press with their chin If these devices are displaced, the patient is unable to correct it, and must resort to yelling to alert a nurse Our device will attempt to mitigate these shortcomings by allowing the patient to speak to activate the alert system, allowing for input at a greater distance with no limb movements required The device uses a mini computer with a microphone attachment for voice input and activation, and a microcontroller connected to a solenoid for mechanical activation of the alert system. This allows for the device to be easily and selectively integrated into the existing alert system at most hospitals We assembled and programmed the device to respond to a specific key phrase amid ambient noise and were able to voice activate the solenoid, as well as demonstrate that it could generate enough force to push a button Future work could replace the external power source with a battery, and compact into a flexible attachment This device will improve accessibility and quality of life for patients with restricted limb mobility

Project 7: Biological Organism Recording and Integrated System During Rocket Launch

Abstract: Space exploration has deleterious effects on the human body and can lead to significant long term adverse effects such as muscle atrophy and bone density loss Many astronauts undergo intense training to prepare for a launch such as High G training, where they are exposed to a high amount of G force Understanding the impact the hypergravity and microgravity environments have on tissue development and function is critical to keeping humans healthy for space travel, especially with the upcoming Artemis program and Mars missions Thus, there is need for a device that can monitor the effects that high action events, such as a rocket launch, has on an organism’s tissues in real time The Biological Organism Recording and Integrated System (BORIS is a device mounted inside the payload bay of Space City Rocketry’s high powered rocket Oberon, with the aim of observing and recording the impact of high accelerative forces on a cell culture to understand how the forces of flight make changes to the structure and function of cell walls and membranes Video footage of magnified cells and interior payload temperature are recorded for analysis of cell conditions and to determine the change in cell diameter during the flight a test flight in March observed rudimentary footage during a 24 second ascent of 7514 N applied on the cells, and internal temperature varied over 1 C Increased magnification and securing the switch on the device light are the next steps to ensure video is visible for the whole flight and that clusters of cells may be identified more easily.

Project 8: Remote Rehabilitation System

Abstract: Electromyography signals are electrical impulses generated by muscle activation. Such signals are obtained using an EMG device to analyze the muscles of interest and determine any muscular or motor dysfunction. Consequently, they can be used for rehabilitation purposes. Currently, there are only a few wireless EMG systems, and they are expensive. However, they can be highly beneficial in cases that would require patient isolation or other reasons. Inspired by this and the growing telerehabilitation, our team set a goal to build an affordable and wireless rehab system that entails building the EMG device and the mobile application necessary to transfer/receive data. The device consists of 3 MyoWare sensors that collect and transfer integrated and rectified EMG signals to the mobile app via the Bluetooth module. The app was built through a program, compatible with the device’s components, called MIT App Inventor 2, and works on Android phones only. The application receives and displays the EMG signals that can also be saved locally. Additionally, it can time the patient’s activity. Further improvements could be made to our system to provide a highly effective remote rehab system for the targeted patients.

Project 9: Blood Flowmeter for Skin

Abstract: For diabetic patients, blood circulation to extremities becomes slower and, as result, can lead to decreased healing rate and increased risk for infection. A lack of treatment can lead to the infection potentially spreading to surrounding tissue and even limb amputation. Monitoring blood flow rate is crucial in detecting the risk for such an infection. While there are other devices for measuring blood flow, such as the Laser Doppler flowmeter, the cost for these devices are often high and used mainly in a clinical setting. We proposed a design for a low cost and portable device to calculate the average energy required to keep a small region of skin at a set temperature for one minute and relate that measurement to blood flow. Our device consists of a small heating coil made from nichrome wire and has an NTC thermistor placed in the center of the coil. We used Arduino Uno as a hardware to software platform and coded for our device via MATLAB. Our software utilizes an on off temperature control system and a relay component to safely power the heating element to the set temperature. To test our device, we developed a low cost artificial vein model to mimic blood circulation and correlated varying flow rates to average energy required to keep the circulation five degrees higher than its current temperature. Our device demonstrates a potential low cost method for measuring blood circulation and for improving the lives of diabetic patients.

Project 10: A Wireless sEMG Based Robotic Rehabilitation System

Abstract: Stroke has been a huge concern throughout the years as it is known to be one of the leading causes of death in the United States For stroke patients, there are a couple of techniques such as targeted physical and technology assisted activities that would help them and serve as therapy to gain motor movement. Nevertheless, new advances in bioengineering have introduced a robotic hand named ‘Hand of Hope” (HoH) that uses real time surface electromyographic signals (sEMG) to control the robotic hand according to the patient’s muscle signals. sEMG is a procedure that measures muscle response or electrical activity based on an individual’s response to nerve stimulation and is recorded by placing electrodes on the surface of a patient’s muscle In this project, TMSi Refa Amplifier was used to amplify the signals received from the sEMG electrodes and send it to MATLAB Later, the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) communication will serve as a method of communication between the commands in MATLAB and the robotic hand motor control performance based on the classified sEMG signals The experiment included fine motor movements such as hand opening/closing and the movement of finger combination gestures. By creating a LDA classifier with 81 accuracy, we were able to have the robotic hand identify and assist in 5 different gestures We hope this stroke rehabilitation technique will help patients with reinforcement of their fine motor function through the strengthening of the nerve signal pathway

Project 11: Quantifying Peripheral Nerves using Deep Learning

Abstract: Larger neurons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) have thick myelin sheaths which cause them to be easy to detect during transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies. Smaller neurons that tend to be unmyelinated lack the distinct bold outline. Current methods of quantifying axons in PN tissue include manual counting, which is labor intensive and inaccurate. This project is aiming to develop an open source software using Python to automatically identify and quantify cell types (large/small neurons) from TEM images of PN tissue. We built a basic mask region based convolutional neural network (Mask R CNN) using a pre trained object detection model to identify the presence, location, and type of cells. This program is able segment a large image, learn filter values, detect axons apart from other cells, then places a color mask over the cell depending on the thickness of the myelin sheaths. These masks are quantified. As can be seen in the image our program can detect larger, myelinated axons but has trouble with detecting smaller axons. Once we adjust our code to locate both types of axons, we will run our program with a larger dataset of TEM images then compare to manually counted images. This program can be made more beneficial for research teams by further developing it into a deep learning neural network. This will allow researchers to process larger datasets with more accurate results and less preprocessing. Another future direction is to integrate this program with an image analysis software, such as Image J, using Jython , a python java hybrid code.

Project 12: Smart Multiplex Flow Meter Sensor System

Abstract: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a highly prevalent condition in women. This condition consists of weakened pelvic muscles leading to diminished bladder control; often leading to uncontrollable leakage during physical movements. Despite the inconveniences of this disorder, treatment options are limited due to safety and efficacy concerns. To study this, we created an automated metabolic cage suited for female rabbits with induced SUI. The objective of this proposal was to create an adaptable system that includes a collection apparatus and a sensor system. These are then attached to the current cages at the University of Houston to measure volume and frequency of micturition events with easy access for data retrieval. This prototype incorporates a mesh filter, a funnel, a flow rate sensor, a peristaltic pump, and an Arduino with Bluetooth capabilities. The data is wirelessly transmitted to a local PC for easy processing and data analysis. Overall, the prototype has been successful in measuring correct volumes of fluid with approximately 93% accuracy and allows for the automatic transfer of data from the Arduino to the mounted SD card for further data analysis. For the future, we plan to test our prototype with SUI-induced rabbits to ensure that the prototype is compatible, accurate for urine testing, and that the prototype can be used to study SUI. This can revolutionize the research industry by improving accuracy of urinary data from rabbits to further the understanding of SUI and other urinary disorders.

Class of 2015

Project 1: Fabrication of Immunosensing Soft Contact Lens as a POC System in Eye Infection Detection

Abstract: Rapid diagnosis of infection within the eye is an area of study that has (to date) been very limited in exploration and innovation. Differentiation between bacterial, fungal, and viral infections within the eye is a difficult process due to the similarities in symptoms in patients with a variety of ocular infections. Proposed is an ELISA-based immunosensing contact lens capable of detecting inflammatory protein markers within human aqueous tears. Soft contact lens assembly will be conducted via two primary methods: synthesis of novel hydrogel-based lens with maximum binding capabilities and improved cross-linking and surface plasma modification of commercially available soft contact lens for binding and successful detection. The lenses will be printed with anti- VCAM-1 antibodies, intended for the detection of the protein VCAM-1, an inflammatory marker. Detection will be conducted using a solution of peroxidase-labeled secondary antibodies in conjunction with a silver reagent, initiating an enzyme-catalyzed silver deposition reaction indicative of the presence of the inflammatory marker. Initial progress in development has been focused on research and acquisition of materials. Due to the limited literature available in the development of such novel diagnostic tools, extensive research has been conducted into creating a device with optimum binding and detecting capabilities. All materials have been sourced and, once received, will immediately be used for hydrogel synthesis and commercial lens plasma modification. Extensive testing will be conducted on the lenses, utilizing an artificial “tear” solution containing VCAM-1 protein for feasibility of design. Following establishment of success of this design, additional modifications will be made to test lens’ capability for differentiating between different types of inflammatory responses and viability of this diagnostic device in clinical applications.

Project 2: Modular Physiological Monitoring System

Abstract: The intended application of the project is vital monitoring during commercial space flights, home healthcare, fitness, and research. The system will measure both physiological and environmental parameters simultaneously. EKG, skin temperature, barometric pressure (altitude), ambient temperature, accelerations, and UV index are the parameters that will be measured. The centerpiece of the system is the Arduino microcontroller. All sensors and the EKG shield are connected to the Arduino boards, which extract the readings of all sensors. The extracted data will be sent to a computer through Wi-Fi thanks to the wireless capability of the Arduino Yun microcontroller. Plotly will be used for data extraction and analysis. Parameter relational plots will be constructed using physiological response to environmental stressors. At the conclusion of last semester we constructed a model on an Arduino Uno board to demonstrate system capabilities. An ambient temperature sensor was implemented in the model with on-board LED lights (green and red) that provided notification (Red LED) when the ambient temperature exceeded 21.5 degrees Celsius. An LCD monitor was also included to demonstrate continuous sensor measurements and display. At the beginning of the second semester we had completed development of the hardware prototype (Milestone 1) and the formation of the Central Hardware Interface (CHI) (Milestone 2), and were starting to work on the data extraction, analysis, and display. This was done by using Plotly to communicate sensor data wirelessly to a server. A computer then extracts this data and displays it in real-time. At the conclusion of the second semester, we had a completed system that utilized two microcontrollers to wirelessly extract and display data (Milestone 3). Although using two microcontrollers was not our original objective, it was the best way for us to integrate the serial EKG into the system. Future work can focus on the miniaturization of the system and establishing communication between the two boards. Our total expenditure for this project was $168 in parts and $6400 in labor.

Project 3: Embryo Dissection Station

Abstract: The purpose of our project was to design, improve, and develop the methods and processes used for the live embryo dissection, including, improvement to the dissection station and examination process. The specific concentration of this project was the construction of a live embryo dissection station that has the same uniform temperature throughout the apparatus that is also economical with regard to fabrication (i.e., the process is cost- and time-effective).

Project 4: Google Glass as a Diagnostic for Melanoma

Abstract: Early melanoma diagnosis is vital for the prevention of complication onsets that may compromise an individual’s life span. In order to diagnose for the presence of melanoma, patients are required to visit a medical facility, which results in the negligence of early symptoms. Our team proposed to develop a melanoma diagnostic utility using Google Glass, which would help provide a point-of-care diagnosis without having to visit a medical facility. Developing a Google Glass diagnostic presents various challenges that mandate the integration of different techniques. The Glass is only capable of capturing 2 dimensional images with its camera, but in order to enhance the diagnostic accuracy, we are developing a code based on the modification of existing algorithms that can create 3-dimensional images from 2-dimensional images. Implementing additional diagnostic criteria for existing 2-dimensional analysis will allow for a 3-dimensional melanoma analysis, which would provide definitive diagnostic results. Image acquisition and analysis will be done via servers that support the processes, and then integrated into the Google Glass. At this time, the Google Glass provides big challenges due to its relative new introduction into the technology market. Therefore, our project includes establishing a method to connect the Google Glass to a development platform, create a graphical user interface to display the diagnostic results, and integrate the servers for a comprehensive diagnosis. During this semester, we were able to establish the software development platform, create a sample melanoma diagnostic display, create a preliminary low resolution 3-dimensional image construct, and run successful 2-dimensional analysis on sample melanoma images. The sponsors covered the Google Glass cost of $1,500, and the University of Houston provides the necessary software for the development process.

Project 5: Optimization of SMFT-based Actuation System Final Report

Abstract: In our Capstone Design Project, we are tasked to optimize an actuation system based on Solid Media Flexible Transmission (SMFT). The SMFT-based system is applicable for robot-assisted surgeries within the MRI, where a very strong permanent magnetic field, fast changing magnetic field gradients and RF pulses are used. SMFT tubes have the potential to efficiently transfer force without the use of magnetically susceptible materials, making it compatible with the MRI scanner. Previously, the tubes have been used at a force transfer efficiency of 50%. Our goal is to increase the force transfer efficiency to 70%. To achieve this goal, we designed a force transfer efficiency testing system involving load cell force sensors, a testing station, and SMFT tubes (Milestones 1, 2, and 3). We also aimed to complete the actuation system by assembling an MRI-compatible needle onto it (Milestone 4). We have successfully completed Milestones 1 and 2, which involves calibrating the load cell and designing a cost-efficient stationary load cell holder to hold the load cell for force efficiency tests. In completing Milestone 3, we have successfully made more stable connections using BNC-BNC cables and interlocking connectors and collected data for the force transfer efficiency of a 1m SMFT tube. Milestone 4 involves assembling a needle holder to be attached to the actuation system and testing it on a porcine kidney suspended in a ballistic gel. The project has reliability constraints for the load cell rod, economic constraints in the 3D printing of the load cell testing station, and manufacturability constraint in the current 3D printing cost and the project’s applicability to test other force transfer systems. During the testing, standards such as the maximum load capacity and the excitation voltage of the load cells have to be determined. The load cell itself follows the accuracy standard IEC 61298-2. In conclusion, the force transfer efficiency decreases with increasing lengths of tubes, but increases at an average of 12.1% across all tubes.

Class of 2014

Project 1: Wireless ECG and Respiratory Monitoring System 

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to design a Wireless ECG and Respiratory Monitoring System. The ECG signal would be collected by electrodes and then amplified and filtered by analog circuit. Next the microcontroller would convert the analog signal into digital signal and amplify it even more. The microcontroller is included in the Wireless transmitter system. Then the data will be sent through MSP430 wireless transmitter (TI wireless development tool) to be processed in a local PC. Our Respiratory monitoring system measures the airflow by using nasal cannula pressure system. This system consists of a nasal cannula (which is standard for oxygen administration) connected to a pressure transducer. Respiratory waveform signal will be generated by detecting the fluctuations in pressure caused by inspiration and expiration. The data will be sent through the same wireless transmitter to be processed in a local PC.

Project 2: Optical Projection Tomography System

Abstract: The scope of this project is to build for Baylor College of Medicine an Optical Projection Tomography system to use in function with an ongoing embryology study. The goal of this project is for the Optical Projection Tomography system to provide a method for high throughput murine embryo imaging. Our design is based on previously published work from the University of Toronto with tweaks and customizations for the specific application requested by Baylor College of Medicine. These tweaks include a differing CCD camera and lens, as well as a possible rotating stage for sequential imaging of multiple embryos at once.

Abstract: The project aims to design, test, and build a Universal Transducer Adapter (UTA) to use in conjunction with commercially available Ultrasound Systems and the Euclid™ Tier 1 Mini Access System designed by Houston Medical Robotics (HMR). The UTA is a much needed design improvement to the Euclid™ system because of the time and financial cost associated with redesigning the adapter for different commercially available ultrasound systems. Multiple design concepts will be presented and tested both in benchtop and animal models and the necessary design documentation will be completed throughout this process. Secondarily, the Euclid™ Tier 1 Mini Base will be ergonomically redesigned for customer ease of use.

Project 4: Lupus Biomarkers

Abstract: The goal of this project is to identify Lupus biomarkers that will be used in a sensor to track the progress of Lupus in a diagnosed patient. Lupus is a systemic autoimmune disease that often results in kidney failure. By tracking the proteins that are filtered through the kidney, it is possible to identify protein biomarkers that are involved in this kidney damage. In order to achieve this goal, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) will be run on urine samples of Lupus patients that will identify those protein biomarkers that have a statistically higher protein concentration compared to patients who are not diagnosed with Lupus. After these biomarkers are identified, a sensor can be created that will evaluate the concentration of these proteins in a urine sample. This sensor can be used in a at home diagnostic kit that can allow a patient to track the progress of their disease without going to the doctor. If the sensor produces alarming results, the patient can then visit the doctor to reevaluate their treatment plan.

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Guide to the ALM Capstone Project

Customstyles.

• Course Catalog
• Preparing for the Biotech Capstone

Capstone Idea Generation

Business plan.

Think about how your idea for a new company, drug, diagnostic, or medical device could be described in a one-page executive summary. This will serve as the introductory section of your soon-to-be developed business plan. It will include a description of the idea, possible source(s) of funding, market demand, competition, and growth potential. A good summary will describe why your idea has potential for profit and success, and how it will solve a problem related to human health.

From the summary, you'll need to develop a “pitch” to potential investors. Think about how to attract interest for start-up capital from a financial investor or scientist. In other words, you should not only think about the scientific relevance for your idea, but how to convince others that your innovation is worthy of financial support. Remember that the audience for the pitch are likely those who have limited scientific training; therefore, you'll need to ensure that you use persuasive language in layman's terms.

For an overview of biotechnology business plans, we recommend that you visit Nature.com link, Writing Your Business Plan

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Biomedical Graduate Education

Capstone Projects

2022-2023 graduates, nelson moore.

Data Scientist at Essential Software Inc

Capstone Project: Modeling and code implementation to support data search and filter through the NCI Cancer Data Aggregator Industry Mentor: Frederick National Lab for Cancer Research: FNLCR

Joelle Fitzgerald

Business Analyst at Ascension Health Care

Capstone Project: Analysis of patient safety event reports data. Industry Mentor: MedStar Health. National Center for Human Factors in Healthcare

Kader (Abdelkader) Bouregag

Healthcare Xplorer | Medical Informatics at Genentech (internship)

Capstone Project: Transforming the Immuno-Oncology data to the OMOP CDM Industry Mentor: MSKCC/ MedStar/ Georgetown University/ Hackensack

Junaid Imam

Data Scientist at Medstar Institute

Capstone Project: Create an [trans-] eQTL visualization tool

Industry Mentor: Pfizer Inc / Harvard

Abbie Gillen

Staff Data Analyst at Nice Healthcare

Capstone Project: Nice Healthcare: Predicting Nice healthcare utilization

Industry Mentor: Nice Healthcare

Capstone Project: Next Generation Data Commons

Industry Mentor: ICF International

2021-2022 Graduates

Ahson saiyed.

NLP Engineer/Data Scientist at TrinetX

Capstone Project : Research Data Platform Pipelines Industry Mentor: Invitae

Walid Nashashibi

Data Scientist at FEMA

Capstone Project: Xenopus RNA-Seq Analysis to Understand Tissue Regeneration Mechanisms Industry Mentor: FDA

Tony Albini

Data Analyst at ClearView Healthcare Partners

Capstone project: Data Mining to understand the patient landscape of Chronic Kidney Disease Population Industry Mentor: AstraZeneca

Anvitha Gooty Agraharam

Business Account Manager at GeneData

Capstone Project: Computational estimation of Pleiotropy in Genome-Phenome Associations for target discovery Industry Mentor: AstraZeneca

Natalie Cortopassi

Researcher at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation

Capstone project: Analysis of Clinical Trial Attrition in Neuropsychiatric Clinical Trials using Machine Learning Industry Mentor: AstraZeneca

Christle Iroezi

Business System Analyst at Centene Corporation

Capstone project: Visualize Digital HealthCare ROI Industry Mentor: MedStar Health

R & D Analyst II at GEICO

Capstone project: Heat Waves and Health Outcomes Industry Mentor: ICF

Research Specialist at Georgetown University

Capstone project: Mental Health Data Commons Industry Mentor: ICF

2020-2021 Graduates

Technology Transformation Analyst, Grant Thornton LLP

Capstone Project: Research Data Platform Pipelines Industry Mentor: Invitae

Research Technician at Georgetown University

Capstone Project: Using a configurable, open-source framework to create a fully functional data commons with the REMBRANDT dataset Industry Mentor: Frederick National Lab for Cancer Research – FNLCR

Consultant at Deloitte

Capstone Project: Building a patient centric data warehouse Industry Mentor: Invitae

Marcio Rosas

Project Manager of Technology and Informatics at Georgetown University

Capstone Project: Knowledge-Based Predictive Modeling of Clinical Trials Enrollment Rates Industry Mentor : AstraZeneca

Yuezheng (Kerry) He

Data Product Associate at YipitData

Capstone Project: ClinicalTrials2Vec – Accelerating trial-level computing using a vectorized model of clinical trial summaries and results Industry Mentor: AstraZeneca

Data Programmer at Chemonics International

Capstone Project: Multi-scale modeling to enable data-driven biomarker and target discovery Industry Mentor: AstraZeneca

2019-2020 Graduates

Pratyush tandale.

Informatics Specialist I at Mayo Clinic

Capstone Project: Improving clinical mapping process for lab data using LOINC Industry Mentor: Flatiron Roche

Shabeeb Kannattikuni

Senior Statistical Programmer at PRA Health Sciences (ICON Pl)

Capstone Project: NGS Data Analysis for the QA of viral vaccines Industry Mentor: Argentys Informatics

Fuyuan Wang (Bruce)

Software Engineer at Essential Software Inc , Frederick National Labs

Capstone Project: Cancer Data Model Visualization framework Industry Mentor: Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research

Ayah Elshikh

Capstone Project: NGS Data Analysis for the QA of viral vaccines

Industry Mentor: Argentys Informatics

Yue (Lilian) Li

Biostatistician and Statistical Programmer , Baim Institute for Clinical Research

Capstone Project: Analysis of COVID-19 Serological test data to improve the COVID-19 Detection capabalities Industry Mentor: Argentys Informatics

Algorithm Performance Engineer at Optovue

Capstone Project: Socioeconomic factors to readmissions after major cancer surgery Industry Mentor: Medstar Health

Jiazhong Zhang

Management Trainee at China Bohai Bank

Jianyi Zhang

Student Capstone Project

Team building and technical know-how..

Students in the M.Eng. in Engineering program will demonstrate their proficiency through a team-based design project. Project ideas are proposed by clients from industry, teaching hospitals, and clinicians seeking solutions to specific problems. Student teams assess the market and conduct competitive analysis, engineering design, software development, proto-typing, testing and documentation of results.  Weekly or biweekly update meetings with clients are essential to the success of the project.  Teams are expected to self-organize their effort by assigning tasks, developing a schedule, identifying bottlenecks, and gathering resources.

Working with the clients, the teams are expected to gain insights to help them implement their idea. During the project, the teams may request guidance from program faculty and may take field trips to the client’s location. Project presentations and demonstrations are delivered during a formal end-of-program event.

For companies looking to engage our M.Eng. students on a capstone project, please submit a project intake form . 

Here are some project examples:

2019 Capstone Projects

(Client: Professor, Health Care Systems Engineering) A portable ultrasound imaging-based breast biopsy system

Advances in diagnostic devices for biopsies is limited to better needles and separately to tissue capturing systems. There have been few developments in integrated systems combining imaging and the biopsy procedure on a single platform. In recent years, MRI-based integrated systems have seen some innovation, but there is still a need for a modern stream-lined system that can accurately identify and localize target regions for breast biopsy.

(Client: Medical device company) Microscopy instrumentation for nerve identification

Transdermal and intraoperative identification and differentiation of nerves from vasculature. The project also involved the review and critique of the current state-of-the-art of light technology for human nerve visualization.

(Client: Global medical device company) Machine learning based physiological signal monitoring during clinical imaging scans Physiological data from a patient is a vital tool for medical diagnostics since it holds invaluable information reflecting the patient’s health status. Monitoring physiological signals could assist in the decision-making, and selection of scan modality and protocol parameters in the clinical setting.

This project aimed to develop a smart tool that automatically optimizes imaging strategies using deep learning.

(Client:  Regional medical hospital) Intra-abdominal biodegradable amylase sensor

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (PODF) is the most common and dangerous complication of pancreatic surgery, affecting 13% to 41% of patients. Surgically placed drains to detect pancreatic fistula often cause intra-abdominal infection and pain in the abdomen.  Early detection and management of pancreatic fistula are very important.

The objective of this capstone project was to develop a biodegradable and implantable sensor.

(Client:  Biopharmaceutical company) Improved medication delivery device or process This project involved the review and analysis of the current medication delivery methods such as IV infusion, push, pumps, intramuscular, etc.  The team assessed the considerations, requirements, decision making, and processes involved with medication.  They also identified innovative concepts to address unmet needs and prototyped a bed-side medication delivery pump.

(Client: Global medical device company) Deep learning for brain anatomy segmentation

With the rapid development of the medical instrumentation field, MRI plays more important roles in the diagnosis of brain diseases. The study of the different structures of brain is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer Disease (AD) and Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The two main brain segmentation methods currently used (manual segmentation and software segmentation) are time-consuming, inefficient and complicated.

The objective was to develop deep learning architecture and its optimization for medical image segmentation and classification.

(Client: Global medical device company) Multiscale contrast enhancement for MRI imaging Magnetic resonance images usually contain both large contrast variations and small vital low contrast details. Applying postprocessing could be helpful to satisfy the conflicting needs of reproducing the low contrast details while maintaining the general gray value range.  A multiscale method, especially an image pyramid, has proven to be a very versatile and efficient algorithm when applied to other kinds of images.  This project objective was to explored the application of the LPSVD (Laplacian pyramid combined with SVD) algorithm to enhance MR images.  This could lead to greater image amplification of the vital areas, while minimizing background “noise”.

(Client: Global medical device company) Motion artifact through head motion tracking during MRI

High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires prolonged scan time to maximize spatial resolution, therefore, this imaging modality is highly sensitive to artifacts caused by motion during the scanning process.  Subject physiologic motions such as blood flow, respiratory and cardiac motion, and gross movements can create undesirable phase shifts that commonly result in image blur or the presence of “ghosts”.

The objective of the project was to develop a motion tracking toolkit capable of tracking head movement within a position matrix.

(Client: Biopharmaceutical company) Improved patient critical care The project involved identifying opportunities to improve the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures of critical care patients with Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) being treated with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT).

(Client:  Biopharmaceutical company) Progressive Supranuclear Palsy screening battery

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a rare, progressive, ultimately fatal neurological condition that strikes patients in the prime of life. The disease robs patients of their ability to carry out everyday tasks (walking, seeing, speaking, interacting, eating, and thinking). There is no currently approved treatment, and with non-specific symptoms at its early stages, PSP is hard to differentiate from Parkinson’s Disease (PD) .

This project explored early diagnosis techniques of PSP, and the objective was to develop a screening protocol for early identification of PSP and differentiation from PD.

(Client: Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering) Mouse texture cue cube

The project involved the development of an automated texture wheel that can be used to provide differentiated and regulated stimuli to mice while they are running mazes in a virtual reality setting.  The study as a whole is about recreating the electrical network of a human brain, so recording the electrical variances of mice when presented with changes in their dominant sense can help build an electrical mammalian map.  This research strives to understand the electrical signals of the brain for applications to treatment of patients with neurological diseases or injuries.

2018 Capstone Projects

(Client: Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering Dept.) Systems Genetic Platform of Neurodegenerative Disorders:

Parkinson’s disease is a complex and debilitating neurodegenerative disorder that afflicts over 10 million people worldwide. The Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative has compiled, maintained, and distributed an extensive collection of clinical, genetic, and advanced imaging data on Parkinson’s disease. By integrating these complex data, PPMI has offered unparalleled opportunities to investigate the early stages of Parkinson’s, monitor disease progression, and develop novel therapeutics through the identification of progression biomarkers.

Combining complex genetic and imaging data in PPMI, the team sought to explore the use of imaging features and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) together as biomarkers for the predictive modeling of Parkinson’s disease. The students proposed, executed, and assessed machine learning approaches for the classification and prediction of Parkinson’s.

(Client: Global medical device company) Intracardiac Electrocardiogram (ICEG) Simulator:

In the current medical device market, there are diverse devices to simulate the physiological signals of the human body, such as surface ECG, SpO 2 , non-invasive blood pressure, temperature, etc. The ICEG is a type of ECG that measures the cardiac signals inside of the heart through multi-pole catheters that have been weaved into the chambers of the heart. The goal of this project was to design a prototype that could emulate the cardiac signal output taken from 32 channels/signals inside the heart, and create software to measure, analyze, and process these signals. This device would then be used for educational and training purposes and to troubleshoot current or new products.

(Client: Start-up medical device company) Wearable Light Therapy Device for the Treatment of Pain and Nerve Injuries:

The project focused on improving a portable light therapy device developed by the client for consumers and military service members/first responders. The client’s approach was to develop a belt embedded with an array of therapeutic LEDs, which can be worn under clothing and would provide pain relief to the treated area via phototherapy. The team was given the task of solving the heat issues, lack of an automatic shut off and flexibility of the device, while keeping the device lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Additionally, the students wanted to provide patients the added benefit of control over their therapy to create a personalized light therapy device that can be modulated to treat a patient’s unique symptoms. To accomplish this, they incorporated a Bluetooth controller to the micro-controller to allow for mobile monitoring and control over the LED array for personalized therapy.

(Client: Start-up medical device company) Biological Imaging with Synthetic Optical Holography:

The company created an add-on for confocal microscopes using synthetic optical holography (SOH). It is for quantitative phase imaging and allows the user to obtain high-resolution images. This technology results in no loss in speed during image acquisition. It is easy to use and can provide high-quality images without the need to stain.

The goal of this project was to have a working implementation of the SOH technology in the Zeiss LSM 880 confocal microscope located at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology. Also, the team was tasked with testing the SOH technology to determine if there were any problems that needed solving. To do this, the team developed a bank of microscope slides and images that compared phase imaging via SOH with fluorescence imaging.

(Client: Global medical device company) 3D Printed Coronaries for a Flow Phantom:

Having standards of known and accurate measurement is useful across multiple scientific disciplines for measuring properties of unknowns and evaluating computational analyses. Phantom vessels that provide realistic representation of human vasculature have been available for decades. While useful for studies that require highly realistic specimens, realistic phantoms generally lack reproducibility and known dimensions, two necessary characteristics of a standard. For this project, the team designed and prototyped phantom blood vessels of simple geometry and phantom coronary artery segments from digital subtraction angiography (DSA) imaging data, with each produced accurately from a 3D computer model stored as a stereolithography (STL) file. These phantom vessels will then be imaged with DSA in a flow loop and used to evaluate measurements performed with an algorithm.

With 3D printing, the students included features present in realistic phantoms (e.g. aneurysms and stenosis), while being able to reproduce phantoms with relatively high accuracy from an STL file.

(Client: Regional medical hospital) Neonatal Jaundice Care for Developing Nations:

The goal of this project was to provide a cost effective, efficient way to treat neonatal bilirubinemia with the development of a fully automated transfusion device. Current methods of treatment for neonatal bilirubinemia are costly, time consuming, and require intensive physician care. In addition, many modern treatment options are unavailable in developing countries because of inhibitive costs, technology, or training. Thus, the team was tasked with designing a device to have the following functionalities and characteristics:

• Equal extraction and infusion rates
• Easy to set up
• Inexpensive and efficient
• Portable and biocompatible
• User-friendly interface
• Blood monitor to ensure patient safety
• Capped flow rate to avoid excessive pressure on the line
• Enhanced safety measures to ensure patient care

(Client: Professor, Bioengineering Dept.) Complete Genome Assembly of  Streptococcus sobrinus :

S. sobrinus  and  S. mutans  are the oral pathogens that are responsible for the condition known as caries.  S. mutans  is identified as being present in all cases of caries but S. sobrinus is without well identified. The focus of this project was to do the complete genome assembly of  S. sobrinus  strains – 7 and 15. This was done using short read Illumina technology and long read Nanopore technology. The team was also asked to see the genomic similarities between  S. sobrinus  and  S. mutans . The complete genome of  S. sobrinus  will further help in understanding how genes interact and allow study of metabolic pathways which can be manipulated and redesigned to meet global needs.

(Client: Regional Medical Hospital) Creation of Radiopaque Temporary Embolic:

The goal of this project was to create a radiopaque temporary embolic, or in other words, a device to block blood flow that is visible via x-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan.  Temporary embolics currently used by surgeons tend to blend in with surrounding tissues after insertion, and it is challenging for surgeons to determine their location. Currently, surgeons inject contrast media into the veins of their patients to highlight vasculature in real time under a machine called a fluoroscope. The problem is that this only allows a surgeon to assume the position of an embolic based on the absence of contrast media flow. A radiopaque temporary embolic would allow for the surgeon to quickly and accurately determine the exact location of the embolic throughout and following a procedure.

(Client: Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering Dept.) Miniaturized Artificial Whisker Scanner and Software:

The project involved the development of a system to simulate mice whisker scanning that also had the ability to read signals related to force in the real mice whisker. Development of such system would allow for better understanding of how the brain works, or more specifically, how the brain perceives the outside sensory world.  This study would also help identify specific neural circuits that are involved in sensory transduction and signal processing. Reverse-engineering of brain circuits can have strong impact on the development of novel biomimetic tactile biosensors, robotic prosthetic arms, haptic virtual reality, and even can influence the design of novel artificial intelligence systems.

2017 Capstone Projects

(Client: Regional medical hospital) Mechanized Bilirubin Scavenging System:

A mechanized bilirubin scavenging system for efficient treatment of neonatal jaundice was developed. The unique design uses a bilirubin removal system similar to hemodialysis, where an infant’s blood will be passed through an external scavenging circuit. The overall impact is huge, since exchange transfusion carries a risk of neonatal mortality, especially in sick infants. The adverse effects of an exchange transfusion include neonatal morbidities, such as apnea, anemia, thrombocytopenia, electrolyte and calcium imbalance, risk of necrotizing enterocolitis, hemorrhage, infection, complications related to the use of blood products, and catheter-related complications.

(Client:  Regional medical hospital) Clearing the Clot:

Arterial and venous thrombosis in performing endovascular procedures by interventional radiologists/vascular surgeons/cardiologists is a recurring problem in a clinical setting. The focus of this project was to analyze and distinguish venous and arterial thrombi in a noninvasive and analytical way. The team was also asked to see how do these component mature or change over time, as the thrombus progresses from acute to subacute to chronic. Clinical samples of thrombus/clots from different veins and arteries were collected during re-canalization procedures using different “suction” catheters and mechanical devises. Samples collected were non-invasively analyzed by ultrasound and other techniques.

(Client:  Start-up medical device company) For Your Eyes Only:

This project focused on real-time monitoring of post-surgical and post-traumatic eye injuries using a hand-held device. Lack of current techniques for the early monitoring of bleb leaks and other post-traumatic or post-surgical ocular injury has posed an unmet clinical need for the development of new techniques. Present evaluation techniques use either subjective or non-quantitative approaches. InnSight Technology developed the world’s first biosensor to evaluate the integrity of the anterior surface of the eye by measuring the concentration of ascorbic acid in the tear film at the point-of-care. The team was tasked with developing a tiny micro-fluidic chamber that draws tear fluid from eye to the sensor.

(Client:  Integrated providers of diagnostic imaging services) Project #1 – T1rho Relaxation: The goal of this project was to simulate the T1rho relaxation effects of an adiabatic RF pulse.  This required the understanding of a rotating frame and its mathematical form, MR RF pulse basics as well as adiabatic design principles. Furthermore, the student studied spin locking and T1rho relaxation using MatLab programming.

Project #2 – iGrasp: The goal of this project was to get Rapid and Continuous Magnetic Resonance Imaging using compressed sensing, and iGRASP. The student used iGRASP, combining golden-angle radial sampling, parallel imaging and compressed sensing, to reconstruct dynamic MRI image in short time (0.1s). They also focused on using golden-angle radial sampling to get incoherent sampling, which is able to break the limit of Naquist sampling rate that reconstructing by less samples.

2016 Capstone Projects

(Client:  Start-up medical device company): Wirelessly Integrated Ocular Biosensor to Monitor Ascorbic Acid Presence in Tear Film and Aqueous Humor:

Hundreds of eye trauma patients are presented in the emergency department every day. The injuries of the globe can lead to severe eye defects and sometimes vision loss. If the severity of these traumas can be detected early, there can be better recovery of the eye.  After these injuries are treated, postoperative monitoring of eye is very critical to check for any leaks from the anterior globe. If the leak is brisk, the patient has to be taken to the operation room. It is important to detect these leaks as soon as possible so that the vision of the patient is not affected. ­The client has developed a biosensor as a solution to this clinical need.

The principle behind the sensor is that the concentration of ascorbic acid in the aqueous humor is around 20 times the concentration of ascorbic acid in the tear film and when the barrier between them breaks due to any wound or tearing in the corneal epithelium, the concentration of ascorbic acid in the tear film spikes up. This concentration level can be detected by the sensor to get an idea about the severity of the trauma. The biosensor is designed so that when ascorbic acid binds to the enzyme on the sensor, there is a change in the interaction between the polymer and graphene platelets. This changes the electrical properties of the sensors and the change can be measured to get an idea about the injury.  The project objective was to enhance the ability of the biosensor to detect the levels of ascorbic acid.

(Client:  Regional medical hospital): Personalized Absorbable Gastrointestinal Stents for Intestinal Fistulae and Perforations:

Gastrointestinal (GI) tract perforations are relatively frequent surgical emergencies, are potentially life-threatening, and can occur from several different sources, including inflammatory conditions, iatrogenic or traumatic injuries, and obstructive etiologies. Increasing clinical findings corroborate the use of self-expandable metallic GI stents in the setting of gastric or esophageal perforations. Patients admitted to the hospital with intestinal fistulae or perforations typically face months of recovery, unlimited numbers of hospital visits and numerous surgeries that could theoretically benefit from an absorbable stent. Placement of synthetic, non-absorbable stents in the esophagus and colon  via  endoscopic approaches is limited to these anatomic locations as endoscopic access is required to remove the stents after healing occurs. Commercially produced stents are currently manufactured in a narrow size range of options, further limiting their applicability in other portions of the GI tract.

Initiated by a general surgeon in response to an unmet clinical need, this project objective was to develop novel translatable absorbable polymeric stent, 3D printed for accurate, anatomically personalized placement in the GI tract. In this highly multidisciplinary work, a 3D-printed stent prototype was developed from a novel material using a commercial AirWolf™ device. This functional and effective technology could offer tremendous impact for patients and healthcare providers and significantly reduce patient morbidity and mortality.

(Client:  Medical simulation and education center): Cadaveric Perfusion Pump: Cadaveric perfusion pumps provide unique opportunities to surgeons and doctors in training. They allow a trainee to practice a surgical procedure under as realistic conditions as is possible before heading into surgery with an actual patient. The pump perfuses a blood mimicking solution through the veins of a cadaver, creating a perfect model for a doctor to practice on.

The client, in collaboration with a regional hospital, has been working to create a perfusion pump that is able to modulate blood pressure and heart rate in order to provide an extra level of realism to the simulations run with the cardiac perfusion pump. The team’s goal was to improve upon the first generation of the client’s artificial perfusion system by making it safer, streamlined and able to accurately generate and measure rapid modulations in fluid pressure. This was done by improving the software to be more robust, improving the setup of the system to be safer and more segregated, finding a pump that is able to generate enough pressure as well as able to switch pressures quickly and integrating sensors into the code that are used to ensure the proper operation of the system as well as act as a safety check.

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The Ridge Review

The Student News Site of Mountain Ridge High School | Glendale, Arizona

Biomedical Innovation Honors Capstone Project

Avery Cross May 10, 2019

This school year, in Mrs. Rodgers 4th year Biomedical Innovation Honors class, the students have been working on a project called Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Biomedical Innovation Capstone.

The students started brainstorming ideas for the project in mid-August.

“During the year they progress through the PLTW curriculum learning how to complete all aspects of the Capstone including procedure, methods, literature review, poster creation and presentation,” said Mrs. Rodgers.

This is a big project for Mrs. Rodgers’ students because it teaches the students important lessons about a college career, helps the students succeed in college, helps with time management, and is great for their portfolios.

“Many students will complete Capstone projects during their college career. Completing the project during high school provides skills for success in college and career and excellent additions to their CTE Portfolio.” said Rodgers

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• Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics

Capstone Project

Experiential learning with a capstone project, develop and lead an actionable biomedical informatics plan.

Professional experience is an essential part of the Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics (MScBMI) at the University of Chicago. As the culminating experience of the program, you will work with an organization to solve a biomedical informatics problem. You will work on real projects solving real problems for businesses in research, technology, healthcare, or education.

This challenging and rewarding project will give you experience in the field, help you build connections, and increase your career potential.

Build a network while solving real-world problems

Make a difference while you are still a student.

The Capstone process provides a path to build expertise in your focus area, connect with your cohort, and meet potential employers or references.

It is designed to offer students an opportunity to gain experience working on real-life biomedical informatics-related problems. You will network with key industry leaders and will have individualized instruction from your academic advisor. This experience will push you into discovery, pave the way for published research, help you explore potential employment opportunities, and challenge you with problem-based work – all having an immediate and positive impact on your career.

Capstone teams engage with problems that may have wide-ranging effects in a variety of settings including clinical, research, and industry. Students identify the knowledge and framework required to address the problem and use the methodologies learned in the Biomedical Informatics program coursework to develop strategies which may involve creating new information management resources, optimizing current data systems, conducting data analysis, and scoping new solutions.

Capstone Project details

• Capstone Overview: The capstone project is a degree requirement for students and is completed during the last three quarters of their program. Students work in small teams with a business partner to address key problems the company needs to solve. The program aids students in identifying viable projects and establishing a scientific advisory panel for oversight and mentorship. At our Capstone Showcase events, all projects are presented to faculty and sponsors for review and evaluation. (link to more details?)
• Capstone Course Sequence: The Capstone course sequence consists of three consecutive classes. You will work directly with a Capstone sponsor according to your preferences, professional experience, and skills. After completing your research, you will produce a final report with all essential components of an academic paper.
• Capstone Sponsor: Your Capstone sponsor is a representative from the organization sponsoring your project who will directly oversee your work. You will connect with your sponsor weekly or bi-weekly to discuss your project’s deliverables, goals, and scope. 
• Scientific Advisors: Scientific advisors are MScBMI program instructors with subject-matter expertise on your project. You will meet with them regularly to talk about your proposal, research methods, and presentation.
• Choosing a Capstone Partner: UChicago provide a portfolio of projects students may be matched to, based on their skills and interest. This provides them a vetted project, sponsor or researcher with real-world problem. Partnerships test program knowledge, but also skills like leadership, time management, project management, and teamwork. Some students get hired into the partner organization after graduation, while others find it easier to obtain a new role based on this experience and references from the project work. Students may also propose their own project. It may be related to work or research they are interested in but must be something outside of their normal daily job responsibilities.

Capstone Projects tailored to your area of specialization and interest

Some of our recent topics:.

Students evaluated the frequency and causes of duplicate computed tomography (CT) scanning in receiving pediatric and adult trauma centers and considered use of electronic methods for image exchange.

Impact: Utilized scholarly research database to conduct literature review and concluded an industry-wide standards-based framework to facilitate the seamless electronic exchange of images is necessary to reduce duplication.

Students developed analytic template leveraging grouper methodology to examine health expenditures of a large corporation’s population.

Impact: Identified major drivers of population costs utilizing data analytics and visualization tools.

A cancer center at a large university has developed a research data warehouse for translational research. Data is generated across multiple domains and stored in a centralized repository. Robust Extract-Transform-Load capabilities have been missing. Students evaluated and made recommendations for ETL workflow.

Impact: Identified ETL workflow, informatics pipeline, and data quality-control strategies. Reviewed data collection process and documented risks to data quality. Proposed learning system approach for continuous data collection.

The need exists to characterize disease occurring in population with moderate-to-severe psoriasis (PsO) that may not be applicable to mild PsO or the general population. Students evaluated and identified cohorts based on EMR information.

Impact: Utilized EMR data to identify and stratify cohort of patients with PsO by severity based on their medication. Conducted descriptive and regression-based tree analyses to characterize each cohort. Concluded characteristics of those within the moderate-to-severe PsO cohort included advanced age, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes consistent with literature describing patients with more severe forms of PsO.

Gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma has a poor prognosis, high molecular heterogeneity and few targeted therapeutic options. Guardant360 is a clinical 73-gene next generation sequencing (NGS) panel for plasma circulating tumor (ct)DNA. Students evaluated a global cohort of 1314 Guardant360 tests to determine correlations between allele frequency of ctDNA, median overall survival and immunotherapy-treated survival.

Impact: Concluded ctDNA analysis merits further evaluation as a prognostic and predictive biomarker and in evaluating molecular heterogeneity.

Students evaluated correlation between pre-operative lab data and post-discharge adverse outcomes in elective hip and knee joint replacement.

Impact: Identified significant laboratory tests, risk adjusted data, and used logistic regression to predict an adverse event. Concluded abnormal values of Albumin and Hemoglobin were significant predictors of prolonged length of stay in both hip and knee patients.

Students developed a tool to assist clinical genomics group in handling the increasing volume of patient genetic data for a large healthcare system.

Impact: Utilized programming scripts to extract, transform and load data from dbSNP, ClinVar and COSMIC into postgreSQL database. Genetic information is now available through a single resource which helps with repeatability, documentation, and incidental reporting.

Students developed web-based database management system for acute care surgical residents.

Impact: Improved data collection and analysis for tracking patient status and estimate operative complication risks. Improved resident workflow and quality measures, provided residents with individual complication rates.

Shape the Future of Health Informatics: Become a Capstone Advisor or Sponsor

Are you passionate about driving innovation in healthcare technology? We invite industry leaders and experts to join us as a Capstone sponsors for our prestigious Biomedical Informatics program at UChicago.

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• capstone projects

Capstone design projects

Students undertake a major design activity in the undergraduate biomedical engineering program and in the Master of Engineering in Biomedical Systems. These projects allow students to apply and implement design lessons, techniques and skills acquired in earlier coursework, to solve real-world medical or industrial problems. 

Project ideas may originate from faculty members engaged in biomedical research and/or industry partners from the medical field, health authorities, and health-based external organizations. Students can select from these projects or work directly with faculty or partners to propose a project.

Find a project

Students who looking for BME499 and BME598 projects should contact the program coordinator at  [email protected] for a list of potential projects.

Submit a project

Industry partners and faculty researchers who are interested in working with our students on capstone design projects can submit proposals using  this form . 

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Capstone Project

The Capstone Project is a cornerstone of our program, offering students the chance to deeply engage with translational research topics they're passionate about. This endeavor spans the spectrum of therapeutics and diagnostics, including areas like drug therapy, vaccines, and gene therapy. It covers a wide array of research stages, from initial clinical translation to real-world application.

Time Commitment : Starting in the Winter Quarter and continuing through August 2025, students should plan for a minimum of 10 hours weekly on their project, with many dedicating more time to meet their objectives.

Projects may be laboratory-based (wet-lab or computational lab) or focus on clinical trials or regulatory aspects of translation. The culmination of the program includes a poster presentation and quarterly product development plan presentations. Unlike a thesis master's, the capstone emphasizes skill and knowledge application within a clinical context, supported by faculty mentorship and industry guidance.

Capstone Project Requirements

Areas of focus: Capstone projects should focus on therapeutics and/or diagnostics involving drug therapy and delivery, vaccines, immune measurements and therapy, or gene measurements and therapy, and can include a range of translational research activities from early-stage clinical translation (T0/T1) to preclinical optimization and validation (T2) to clinical validation and integration (T3) to implementation and dissemination in real-world settings (T4). The program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex and dynamic landscape of biomedical innovation and translation.

The capstone research project typically takes place within Stanford faculty research labs. However, working professionals (students who are already employed at local drug or biotech companies) have the option to conduct their capstone within their respective companies, benefiting from industry and academic mentorship.

Initiating a project:

Before officially starting M-TRAM studies in the Fall, students engage in in-depth discussions with the M-TRAM leadership team regarding their interests, career aspirations, and potential project concepts (between May to September. Through mutual agreement between the student and M-TRAM, efforts are made to identify and assign the most suitable capstone advisor based on alignment of interests and expertise.  

During the fall quarter, students dedicate time to engaging in thorough discussions with their advisors regarding potential research project ideas. They delve into in-depth reading and exploration of various concepts, aiming to refine and solidify their understanding of their potential projects. This period serves as a crucial phase for students to narrow down their focus and lay the groundwork for their capstone proposals.

By the end of the first quarter, students are required to present their capstone project proposal to the M-TRAM directors and other students in the program.

The proposal and capstone advisor must be approved by the M-TRAM Directors prior to the onset of the project.  

Goals of the capstone project:   The capstone project serves as a bridge between scientific innovation and real-world application, providing students with a hands-on experience in navigating the journey from idea conception to patient delivery. It's essentially an exercise in contextualizing scientific ideas within the broader landscape of healthcare, understanding where it fits in, and devising a strategic development plan for a therapeutic/diagnostic.

Throughout the capstone, students learn how to translate scientific concepts into actionable plans that address unmet medical needs and improve patient outcomes. This involves conducting thorough research to identify the clinical relevance and market potential of their ideas, as well as understanding the regulatory and commercial considerations involved in bringing them to fruition.By engaging in the capstone project, students gain valuable skills in strategic planning, market analysis, and stakeholder communication. They learn how to formulate a development plan that outlines the pathway from concept to commercialization, including key milestones, resource requirements, and risk management strategies.

Overall, the capstone project provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the process of biomedical innovation, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to drive meaningful change in healthcare.  

Capstone Committee: At the end of the first quarter, students designate a Capstone faculty advisor, and a technology advisor (this could be scientific mentor, such as a core director or a postdoctoral project mentor).  

Project timeline and progress: The student, M-TRAM directors and the Capstone advisors agree on a proposed timeline for completion. The Committee will review the proposal and offer guidance and monitoring throughout the project. During quarters two through four (Winter, Spring, Summer), students will meet regularly with their capstone advisors to discuss their progress. At the end of each quarter, student will present their progress to the M-TRAM directors and other students.

Capstone completion: Upon completion of the project, students will formally present their final results at the student research showcase in the beginning of September following their graduation. In addition to the poster, students will be required to present their capstone progress at the end of each quarter (December, March and May).

Capstone Project Proposal Guidelines

• Student will regularly meet with the advisor(s) and M-TRAM leadership to monitor progress of their project and to provide advice and feedback
• The culmination of the program includes a poster presentation at the M-TRAM Symposium (beginning of September after graduation) and quarterly product development plan presentations.
• MTRAM will support each student's research with a research stipend of $3,500 (reagents, consumables, kits, services).

CAPSTONE PROJECTS 2023/24

• “ AI/machine learning enabled structure-based drug discovery. ”
• Capstone advisor: Russ Altman, MD, Ph.D ., Kenneth Fong Professor of Bioengineering, Genetics, Medicine, Biomedical Data Science and (by courtesy) Computer Science), past chairman of the Bioengineering Department
• “Pharmacological validation of clinically relevant cancer targets “
• Capstone advisor: Nathanael Gray, MD, Ph.D ., Krishnan Shah Family Professor of Chemical and Systems Biology, Co-Lead of Medicinal Chemistry (IMA: Innovative Medicines Accelerator)

ANANYA JAIN

• “Developing therapeutics for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).”
• Capstone advisor: Vinicio de Jesus Perez, MD , Associate Professor of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine

MAXIMILIAN NISSLEIN

• “Tumor infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy for solid tumors (melanoma)”
• Capstone advisor: Allison Betof Warner, MD, PhD , Assistant Professor of Medicine (Oncology), Director of the Melanoma Program and Faculty Leader of the Melanoma|Cutaneous Oncology Clinical Research Group in the SCI-Cancer Clinical Trials Office

ADRIANA CHU

• “Glycoproteomics based early cancer detection.”
• Capstone advisor: Carolyn Bertozzi, PhD , Baker Family Director of Stanford Sarafan ChEM-H, Anne T. and Robert K. Bass Professor, School of Humanities and Sciences
• Industry collaboration with InterVenn Biosciences (company)

JESSICA LAYNE

• "Anti-Myc cancer therapeutics"
• Capstone advisor: Dean Felsher, MD, PhD , Professor of Medicine (Oncology) and of Pathology, TRAM Director, M-TRAM Faculty Director, Co-Director Cancer Nanotechnology Program, Department of Radiology, Stanford School of Medicine, Director of Admissions/Associate Director, Medical Scientist Training Program, Director of Advanced Residency Training Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Co-Director of Spectrum KL2 Mentored Development Program, Stanford University, School of Medicine
• "AI enabled drug discovery for breast cancer"
• Capstone advisor: Christina Curtis, MD, PhD , Professor of Medicine, Genetics and Biomedical Data Science, Director of Artificial Intelligence and Cancer Genomics, Director - Breast Cancer Translational Research (Stanford Cancer Institute), Co-Director - Molecular Tumor Board, Stanford Cancer Institut

ZAIN DIBIAN

• "T-reg cell immunotherapy for graft vs. host disease"
• Capstone advisor: Everett Meyer, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Blood & Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy

SHONA ALLEN

• " Developing a therapeutic for SMA (spital muscular atrophy) neurological disorder: computational analysis of clinical trial data"
• Capstone advisor: Jacinda Sampson, MD, PhD, Clinical Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciencies

PETER CAROLINE

• "Immunotherapy for IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)"
• Capstone advisor: Sidhartha Sinha, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine (Gastroenterology and Hepatology), Director of Digital Health and Innovation, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology   

CHLOE GERUNGAN

• "Developing a therapeutic for infectious disease (malaria)"
• Capstone advisor: Prasanna Jagannathan, MD , Assistant Professor of Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and of Microbiology and Immunology

JOEY OLSHAUSEN

• "Drug repurposing for treatment of cardio valve disease"
• Capstone advisor: Ian Chen, MD , Assistant Professor of Medicine (Cardiovascular Disease) and of Radiology (Veterans Affairs), Director, Translational Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Director, VA/PAVIR Summer Research Program

Capstone Projects 2022-23

Chris aboujudom.

• “ Development of Novel MYC-directed Anti-cancer Therapeutics ”
• Capstone advisor: Dean Felsher, MD Ph.D ., Professor of Medicine (Oncology) and of Pathology, M-TRAM Program Director,

McKAY GOHAZRUA BUTLER

• “Developing protocols for isolation and purification of MYC-derived cancer extracellular vesicles (EVs) for improved diagnosis and monitoring of cancer.“
• Capstone advisor: Dean Felsher, MD Ph.D ., Professor of Medicine (Oncology) and of Pathology, M-TRAM Program Director

NIRK E. QUISPE CALLA, MD

• “Development of a combined cancer vaccine and immunotherapy (anti-PD-L1) delivery using dendritic cell-based microbubbles against triple-negative breast cancer”
• Capstone advisor: Ramasamy Paulmurugan, PhD , Professor of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford
• “Investigate the roles and therapeutic value of human anti-phagocytotic genes in augmenting CAR-T cell therapy”
• Capstone advisor: Crystal Mackall, MD (Capstone Primary Advisor Faculty Mentor), Founding Director of the Stanford Center for Cancer Cell Therapy, Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine

JULIAN WOLF, MD

• "High-resolution proteomic profiling of aqueous humor liquid biopsies as a diagnostic and prognostic tool for choroidal melanoma"
• Capstone advisor: Vinit Mahajan, MD, PhD , Professor of Ophthalmology, Vice Chair for Research (Ophthalmology)
• Capstone advisor: Nima Aghaeepour, PhD , Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, Pediatrics and Biomedical Science

Applications portal is now closed  

For the 2024/2025 academic year, we will be accepting applications for 2025/26, in the fall of 2024..

Questions? Contact us! [email protected]

Important Dates

September 2024 to January 2024:

• Applications accepted for 2025/26

December, 2024 (date tba):

• M-TRAM info session webinar for prospective students 

January 15, 2025:

• Applications are due for 2025/26

April, 2025:

• Admission Decisions

Sept. 2025: (date tba)

• M-TRAM research symposium and New Students Orientation (in person) - stay tuned for registration info

Sept. 22, 2025:

• First day of classes at Stanford (M-TRAM program starts)

Interested in Becoming an M-TRAM Industry Partner?

We welcome inquiries from biotechnology, pharmaceutical and other health care organizations interested in learning about opportunities to partner with M-TRAM: 

[email protected]

Project Lead the Way (PLTW)

Orlando Science PLTW-Engineering Curriculum

Introduction to Engineering Design Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software and an engineering notebook to document their work.

Principles of Engineering Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation.

Aerospace Engineering This course propels students’ learning in the fundamentals of atmospheric and space flight. As they explore the physics of flight, students bring the concepts to life by designing an airfoil, propulsion system, and rockets. They learn basic orbital mechanics using industry-standard software.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing is one of the specialization courses in the PLTW Engineering program. The course deepens the skills and knowledge of an engineering student within the context of efficiently creating the products all around us. Students build upon their Computer Aided Design (CAD) experience through the use of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software. CAM transforms a digital design into a program that a Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) mill uses to transform a block of raw material into a product designed by a student. Students learn and apply concepts related to integrating robotic systems such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV) and robotic arms into manufacturing systems. Throughout the course students learn about manufacturing processes and systems. This course culminates with a capstone project where students design, build, program, and present a manufacturing system model capable of creating a product.

Orlando Science Biomedical Science Curriculum

The rigorous and relevant four-course PLTW Biomedical Science sequence allows students to investigate the roles of biomedical professionals as they study the concepts of human medicine, physiology, genetics, microbiology, and public health. Students engage in activities like investigating the death of a fictional person to learn content in the context of real-world cases. They examine the structures and interactions of human body systems and explore the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, all while working collaboratively to understand and design solutions to the most pressing health challenges of today and the future. Each course in the Biomedical Science sequence builds on the skills and knowledge students gain in the preceding courses. Schools offer the three PLTW Biomedical Science foundation courses within a period of three academic years from the start of implementation and may also offer the capstone course.

Principles of Biomedical Science In the introductory course of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, students explore concepts of biology and medicine to determine factors that lead to the death of a fictional person. While investigating the case, students examine autopsy reports, investigate medical history, and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life.

Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Maniken®, use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration, and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases.

Medical Interventions Students follow the life of a fictitious family as they investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Students explore how to detect and fight infection, screen and evaluate the code in human DNA, evaluate cancer treatment options, and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through real-world cases, students are exposed to a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics.

Biomedical Innovation In the final course of the PLTW Biomedical Science sequence, students build on the knowledge and skills gained from previous courses to design innovative solutions for the most pressing health challenges of the 21st century. Students address topics ranging from public health and biomedical engineering to clinical medicine and physiology. They have the opportunity to work on an independent design project with a mentor or advisor from a university, medical facility, or research institution.

ENGINEERING AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES PATHWAYS

GRADUATION COUNT DOWN

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Bio-medical Capstone Projects (Medtec)

• Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering Capstone Projects
• Bioengineering Capstone Projects
• Civil Engineering Design Projects
• Chemical Engineering Design Projects

NSERC Design Chair for Interdisciplinary Innovation of Medical Technologies of McGill University's Faculty of Engineering and the Department of Mechanical Engineering are constantly seeking to partner with local industry working in medical and bio-engineering fields.

During the two‑semester Capstone Mechanical Engineering Project course approximately half of the projects every year are related to various medical and bionics applications, including surgery, cardiology, vascular, cervical and others. The lists of bio-med projects accomplished in the previous years can be found on the web page of the Design Chair . You can also learn more about the Design Chair here .

The teams usually include four Mechanical Engineering students, however, in accordance with the partner's needs, we can build an interdisciplinary (hybrid) team that may include students from Bio-Engineering Departments, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and other Departments of the Faculty.

If you are interested in getting benefits for your company from motivated, passionate and creative students, while helping them to master modern technologies and engineering, we will be happy to include your project to the capstone design course of the next academic year.

Should you wish to become a distinguished member of this Design Chair at McGill (amongst many other MEDTEC companies), the cost of one project is $4000 which comes with other advantages we are happy to discuss. The cost of any materials used to build prototypes will be covered within a reasonable limit which we will inform you should you approach this limit.

•   All prototypes and copies of drawings and reports are delivered to the sponsoring client at the conclusion of the project. Any intellectual property developed during the project belongs to the sponsor .

Projects begin in the fall and culminate with the McGill Design Day, an exhibition of all projects and their prototypes in the first week of April.

To propose a project, please fill the form and email it to the address indicated in it, or just send us an email with your ideas and/or proposals.

Department and University Information

FHNtoday.com

Biomedical Innovation Class Begins Their Year Long Research Projects

(image from Matthew Riffee’s twitter account)

By Michaela Erfling Published: October 5, 2017

This year, a new class was brought to FHSD: Biomedical Innovations. This class is the capstone course for Project Lead the Way Biomedical classes and is offered to seniors.

“I started taking PLTW classes, because I thought they sounded really cool and I knew I wanted to go into the medical field,” senior Reilly Harris said. “So, I thought they would give me good insight on that.”

BI gives students the opportunity to explore real world problems of the medical community in a greater depth than the first three courses do. This class, taught at FHN by Matthew Riffee, contains eight different problems that the students solve throughout the year, one of those being a year long independent research project.

“My favorite part of teaching the BI class is the amount of autonomy usage, which means choice, for the students,” Riffee said. “It’s a nice culmination to three years of biomedical classes.”

The research project is a large aspect of the classes curriculum. Through this project the students tackle real world problem pertaining to biomedical science. Students are given the option of what they want to study and are in charge of forming a procedure that correlates with the study they desire to carry out.

“I want my students to experience what it’s going to be like in the career world and what it means to be able to pull the project all together, time management wise and see the benefit and reward from it,” Riffee said.

Students taking the course have already chosen their research project topics. Students did not have to specifically pick something relating directly to the medical field. Senior Erin Stock selected the topic of: what is the effect of confidence on test taking skills? Through this project, Stock hopes to learn the outcome and gain insight as to if level of confidence affects test scores. Students are also required to have at least one mentor to help guide and answer any questions that might arise. For Stock, her mentors are conveniently located at FHN.

“[My mentors are] Mr. Fowler and Mr. Willott, they will be really helpful because they know what they are doing in their fields and can help prevent bias in the experiment,” said Stock.

There are many other topics that could have been chosen. For example, students Reilly Harris and Breanna Jefferies are analyzing how students get detentions. They will be reviewing data on how students receive detentions and whether or not they repeat the same offense and get another detention for it, essentially determining if detentions are effective or not.

• Biomedical Innovations
• Breanna Jefferies
• Matthew Riffee
• Michaela Erfling
• Reilly Harris
• Sean Fowler
• steve willot

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Making an Impact Through Biomedical Innovation

Posted on: Feb 20, 2017 12:00:00 AM

Tammy Martin is an instructor at Mt. Vernon Township High School in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, and teaches in both the Health Science Department and the PLTW Biomedical Science Department. This is Tammy’s ninth year teaching and sixth year teaching PLTW Biomedical Science. Tammy became a Master Teacher in Human Body Systems (HBS) three years ago.

Mt. Vernon Township High School offered the PLTW Biomedical Science capstone class Biomedical Innovation (BI) for the first time during the 2015-16 school year. It was a huge accomplishment to implement the first class of the program’s sequence – Principles of Biomedical Science (PBS) – five years ago. But to eventually offer all four years of the PLTW Biomedical Science curriculum to our students feels like an even more incredible success. At our school, I am the sole instructor for this program, and I absolutely love it! It has brought a challenging class to our students and one that they walk away from truly enriched with knowledge and skills!

I wanted to talk about one fourth-year student’s final project. His sister had recently suffered a fractured vertebra in a car accident the summer before, and it changed not only her life but also the life of his family. He spent countless hours at the hospital during her recovery. During this time, he decided that becoming an emergency room physician was his goal.

During the second semester of BI, the student was trying to come up with a final project. I encouraged him to use the experience and knowledge that he had gained watching his sister go through all of the stages of healing. He used his knowledge from that and from the previous three years in PLTW Biomedical Science and came up with a device that would help not only his sister but also other paraplegics.

Throughout her recovery, it was eye-opening to see the "normal" day-to-day activities that we accomplish without even thinking about what it would be like to not be able to do them. One thing that he focused on was the inability to wheel yourself to your car, at night, while using a light source to see. When you are in a wheelchair, you need both of your hands to move, and that leaves nothing to hold your light. Most of us have cellular devices that have flashlights that we can easily maneuver. But without available hands, that makes it a bit difficult.

The device he developed and prototyped was an LED light bar that would easily attach to the person’s lower leg. He attached a toggle switch, and it was ready to go. His sister modeled the device and even tested the product! I was so impressed and proud of my student for not only using his knowledge of biomedical design, but also taking his project to the next level by identifying a real-life situation and applying his skills to develop a very usable device.

PLTW’s blog is intended to serve as a forum for ideas and perspectives from across our network. The opinions expressed are those of each guest author.

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Innovative 111+ Biotechnology Project Ideas – [2024 Updated]

• Post author By admin
• February 3, 2024

In the exciting world of biotechnology, where discoveries are always changing what we know, hands-on projects are like doors to new ideas and adventures.

Biotechnology is like a mix of biology, technology, and engineering. It goes beyond the usual limits and is important in changing how we do things in farming, healthcare, the environment, and industry.

Starting biotechnology projects helps you be creative and understand how life works more thoroughly. Whether a student, researcher, or just interested, working on biotechnology projects is like an exciting adventure where you get to try things out, learn, and be part of the ongoing scientific progress.

In this blog, we will delve into a myriad of Biotechnology Project Ideas that transcend traditional boundaries, inspiring you to embark on a journey of discovery. From enhancing agricultural productivity to revolutionizing healthcare, mitigating environmental challenges, and innovating industrial processes.

 These ideas encapsulate the essence of biotechnological potential. So, let’s explore the realms of biotechnology and ignite the spark of innovation that can shape a brighter future.

Table of Contents

What is Biotechnology?

Biotechnology is like a mix of biology, technology, and engineering. It’s all about using living things, cells, and biological systems to create new and improved stuff that can be useful in different industries.

Biotechnology is useful in medicine, farming, taking care of the environment, and in industries. Scientists use methods like changing genes, studying tiny biological parts, and growing cells in labs to make medicines, boost crop growth, and clean up pollution.

Biotechnology is crucial in advancing scientific understanding and finding practical applications for improving our lives and the world around us.

Importance of Biotechnology in Today’s Life

The importance of biotechnology projects lies in their potential to revolutionize various fields and address pressing global challenges. Here are key aspects highlighting the significance of biotechnology projects.

Medical Advancements

Development of new therapies and drugs, including personalized medicine tailored to individual genetic profiles.

Advances in gene therapy for treating genetic disorders and chronic diseases.

Innovative diagnostic tools and techniques, improving early detection and treatment.

Agricultural Innovation

Creation of genetically modified crops for increased yield, improved nutritional content, and resistance to pests and diseases.

Precision agriculture uses biotechnology to optimize resource use, reduce environmental impact, and enhance food security.

Sustainable farming practices with the development of biopesticides and biofertilizers.

Environmental Conservation

Bioremediation projects clean up polluted environments by using microorganisms to degrade or remove contaminants.

Waste-to-energy technologies contribute to the generation of clean and sustainable energy.

Development of eco-friendly solutions such as biodegradable plastics and materials.

Industrial Applications

Improved efficiency in industrial processes through enzyme engineering and bioprocessing.

Development of biosensors for real-time monitoring and quality control in manufacturing.

Bio-based materials and bio-manufacturing, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.

Economic Impact

Job creation and economic growth through the expansion of biotechnology-related industries.

Increased competitiveness and innovation in global markets.

The potential for new revenue streams and business opportunities.

Addressing Global Challenges

Solutions for feeding a growing population through crop productivity and food technology advancements.

Sustainable energy sources and technologies to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Innovative healthcare solutions to combat emerging diseases and improve overall public health.

Research and Education

Advancing scientific knowledge and understanding of biological systems.

Providing opportunities for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

Educating and training the next generation of scientists and professionals in cutting-edge technologies.

Ethics and Social Responsibility

Ethical considerations in biotechnology projects ensure responsible and transparent practices.

Socially responsible biotechnological applications that consider the impact on communities and ecosystems.

NOTE : Also Read “ 60+ Brilliant EBP Nursing Project Ideas: From Idea to Impact “

Innovative Biotechnology Project Ideas in Agricultural 

• Precision Farming using IoT and Biotechnology
• Plant-Microbe Interactions for Enhanced Crop Growth
• Biofortification of Crops for Improved Nutritional Value
• Sustainable Pest Management through Genetic Engineering
• Development of Drought-Resistant Crops
• Biocontrol of Plant Pathogens using Antimicrobial Peptides
• Genetic Modification for Extended Shelf Life of Fruits and Vegetables
• Soil Microbial Community Analysis for Crop Health
• Development of Heat-Tolerant Crop Varieties
• Harnessing Endophytic Microbes for Crop Protection

Medical Biotechnology Projects

• CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing for Genetic Disorders
• Development of a Biosensor for Cancer Biomarkers
• Personalized Medicine through Genomic Profiling
• Engineering Microbes for Drug Delivery
• 3D Bioprinting of Human Organs
• Stem Cell Therapy for Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Vaccine Development Using Recombinant DNA Technology
• Development of Rapid Diagnostic Kits for Infectious Diseases
• CRISPR-Cas9 in Antiviral Therapies
• Biocompatible Implants for Tissue Regeneration

Environmental Biotechnology Projects

• Microbial Fuel Cells for Renewable Energy Generation
• Biodegradation of Plastics Using Enzymes
• Monitoring Water Quality with Algal Biosensors
• Mycoremediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Soil
• Methane Biofiltration in Wastewater Treatment
• Phytoremediation for Soil Cleanup
• Biofiltration of Airborne Pollutants using Bacteria
• Aquaponics Systems for Sustainable Food Production
• Harnessing Algae for Carbon Capture
• Development of Biogenic Nanoparticles for Water Purification

Industrial Biotechnology Projects

• Enzyme Engineering for Industrial Processes
• Metabolic Engineering for Bio-based Chemicals
• Bioprocess Optimization for Antibiotic Production
• Development of Enzymatic Biofuel Cells
• Bacterial Cellulose Production for Sustainable Textiles
• Biosurfactant Production for Environmental Applications
• Bioproduction of Flavors and Fragrances
• Bio-based Plastics from Agricultural Waste
• Biocatalysis for Pharmaceutical Synthesis
• Integration of Biotechnology in Food Processing

Food and Nutrition Biotechnology Projects

• Fermentation Technology for Probiotic Foods
• Genetic Modification for Enhanced Nutrient Content in Crops
• Development of Functional Foods using Biotechnology
• Cultured Meat Production Using Cell Culture Techniques
• Enzyme-Assisted Brewing and Distillation
• Biotechnological Approaches to Reduce Food Allergens
• Rapid Detection of Foodborne Pathogens
• Biofortification of Staple Crops with Micronutrients
• Algal Biotechnology for Nutraceuticals
• Development of Low-Gluten or Gluten-Free Wheat Varieties

Bioinformatics and Computational Biotechnology Projects

• Computational Drug Discovery using Molecular Docking
• Analysis of Biological Networks for Disease Prediction
• Machine Learning Algorithms for Genomic Data Analysis
• Comparative Genomics of Extremophiles
• Virtual Screening for Enzyme Inhibitors
• Modeling Protein-Protein Interactions
• Development of a Biomedical Image Analysis Tool
• Predictive Modeling of Protein Folding
• Evolutionary Algorithms in Synthetic Biology
• Systems Biology Approaches for Disease Pathways

Nanobiotechnology Projects

• Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery Systems
• Nanosensors for Detection of Environmental Pollutants
• Gold Nanoparticles in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
• Nanobiomaterials for Tissue Engineering
• Quantum Dots in Biological Imaging
• Magnetic Nanoparticles for Hyperthermia Treatment
• Carbon Nanotubes for Drug Delivery Applications
• Nanotechnology in Crop Protection
• Nanoencapsulation of Bioactive Compounds in Food
• Liposomal Nanocarriers for Vaccine Delivery

Synthetic Biology Projects

• BioBrick Construction for Synthetic Biological Systems
• Design and Construction of Minimal Genomes
• Development of Programmable RNA Devices
• Synthetic Biology Approaches to Biofuel Production
• Genetic Circuits for Bioremediation Applications
• Optogenetic Control of Cellular Processes
• Directed Evolution of Enzymes for Specific Functions
• Synthetic Microbial Consortia for Industrial Applications
• CRISPR-Cas9-Based Synthetic Gene Circuits
• Biocontainment Strategies for Engineered Organisms

Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Projects

• Differentiation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
• Biomaterials for Stem Cell Delivery in Regenerative Medicine
• Stem Cell-Based Therapies for Cardiovascular Diseases
• Biofabrication of Scaffold-Free Tissues
• Organoids as Models for Drug Testing
• Stem Cells in Wound Healing and Tissue Repair
• Engineering Artificial Organs for Transplantation
• 3D Bioprinting of Vascularized Tissues
• Stem Cells in Spinal Cord Injury Repair
• In vitro Models of Human Development Using Stem Cells

Biotechnology Ethics and Policy Projects

• Ethical Implications of CRISPR-Cas9 Technology
• Regulatory Frameworks for Genetically Modified Organisms
• Biosecurity in Biotechnology Research
• Access to Biotechnology in Developing Countries
• Public Perception of Genetically Modified Foods
• Intellectual Property Issues in Biotechnology
• Ethical Considerations in Human Gene Editing
• Environmental Impact Assessment of Biotechnological Processes
• Informed Consent in Biomedical Research
• Policies and Regulations for Biobanking

Marine Biotechnology Projects

• Bioprospecting for Novel Marine Microorganisms
• Algal Biotechnology for Biofuel Production
• Marine Enzymes in Industrial Applications
• Coral Microbiome Research for Conservation
• Marine Bioplastics from Algae
• Marine Natural Products for Drug Discovery
• Bioremediation of Oil Spills using Marine Microbes
• Marine Biotechnology for Aquaculture
• Metagenomics of Deep-Sea Environments
• Marine Bacterial Biofilms for Industrial Applications

Education and Outreach Projects

• Biotechnology Workshops for High School Students
• Creation of Educational Biotechnology Kits
• Virtual Laboratories for Biotechnology Learning
• Biotechnology Outreach Programs in Communities
• Development of Educational Games for Biotechnology
• Biotechnology Science Fairs and Competitions
• Online Biotechnology Courses for the Public
• Science Communication in Biotechnology
• Establishment of Biotechnology Learning Centers
• STEM Education Integration with Biotechnology

Biotechnology offers exciting project ideas for students and hobbyists of all levels. From simple at-home experiments with yeast and bacteria to more advanced projects in genetic engineering , there are biotech projects to interest and suit anyone. 

While proper safety measures, ethical thinking, and supervision should always be used, especially for young students, biotech projects allow for valuable hands-on learning about this fascinating and fast-growing area. Whether you want to design a new bacteria strain, mimic natural selection, or extract your DNA, biotechnology welcomes your curiosity and innovation. 

This article has outlined some key biotech project concepts and possibilities, showing how biotech provides impactful educational experiences. With so many options to actively explore science, consider starting your biotech journey today.

Why should I consider a biotechnology project?

Biotechnology projects offer opportunities to contribute to scientific advancements, address real-world problems, and positively impact society. They provide a platform for innovation and creativity.

How do I choose the right biotechnology project?

Consider factors such as relevance to current challenges, feasibility, potential impact, available resources, and personal interests. The blog provides criteria to help guide the selection process.

Are there specific areas within biotechnology that are more promising for projects?

The blog outlines different areas for biotechnology projects, including healthcare, agriculture, environmental conservation, and industrial applications. Each section provides project ideas in those respective domains.

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Sponsor a Capstone Design Project

Help create future biomedical engineers .

Get involved with biomedical engineering students and partner with Penn State and the Department of Biomedical Engineering to sponsor a senior capstone design project. We assemble interdisciplinary student teams to tackle problems/projects using knowledge acquired during their undergraduate education. Students are also tasked with building and utilizing quality communication and team-based skills to achieve their goals.

*Projects are offered as part of the Learning Factory *

What are Senior Capstone Design Projects?

• All Penn State biomedical engineering students are required to complete BME 450W: Biomedical Senior Design prior to graduation.
• Senior capstone design projects partner student teams with industry professionals in order to test and design solutions to real-world challenges in medicine, healthcare, biology, and engineering.
• Students apply theoretical information gained in the classroom with a solid basis of teamwork and communication skills to deliver powerful ideas with viable results.
• Projects are developed during the course of a semester and culminate each spring and fall during the College of Engineering Design Showcase.
• Students receive valuable, practical hands-on experience to students in a number of engineering disciplines.

Benefits to Sponsors:

• Uncovering fresh ideas and solutions to real problems
• Investigating low cost, low risk new ideas
• Creating corporate exposure opportunities throughout campus
• Providing your company with a public relations opporunity 
• Discovering potential future star employees for your company
• Improving engineering education at Penn State
• Interacting with bright, energetic, creative young minds
• Networking with other companies and Penn State faculty.

Past Project Highlights

• BME faculty member Spencer Szczesny advises four award winning capstone deisgn project teams
• Dermatology residents optimize exam that identifies skin cancers
• Two biomedical engineering teams win awards at  Spring 2018 Capstone Design Project Showcase  
• Biomedical engineering team awarded at Spring 2017 Design Showcase
• Lucy's Story: How Penn State engineering students are helping one child move forward
• BME graduates travel to Shanghai China to present global capstone projects
• BME students awarded at spring 2015 Design Showcase

Interested in sponsoring a project?

Send an email for more information to:.

• Daniel Hayes Department Head and Huck Chair in Nanotherapeutics and Regenerative Medicine [email protected]
• Matthew Parkinson Professor and Director of The Learning Factory [email protected]

The Department of Biomedical Engineering administers the bachelor of science, master of science, and doctorate degree programs in biomedical engineering. Our work combines traditional engineering principles with medicine and technology for the betterment of human health and society. 

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• A Ventilation Coach for Opioid Overdose...

A Ventilation Coach for Opioid Overdose Bystanders Takes Top Prize at Inaugural Capstone Design Expo

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Dean's Award winners with Testudo, Dean Samuel Graham, Jr., and Fischell Department of Bioengineering Chair John Fisher

The opioid overdose epidemic—which claimed more than 110,000 lives in the U.S. last year alone—has prompted an urgent need for accessible solutions to save lives outside of hospital settings.

Maryland bioengineering seniors rose to the challenge in the Clark School’s inaugural Capstone Design Expo by developing a device that empowers bystanders and non-EMTs to properly and safely provide overdose victims with rescue breaths.

Their capstone design project, “ Accessible Ventilation Coach for Opioid Overdose Bystanders ,” won the Dean’s Award (and a $1,000 prize) at the May 1 event, held on UMD’s College Park campus at the XFINITY Center. The bioengineering team’s innovative adjunctive device, which uses a printed circuit board, connects to a bag valve mask (BVM) and provides visual guide LEDs for the proper rate and depth of breath compressions, along with feedback LEDs synchronized with the user’s performance. An audio system also provides coaching during use, guiding users in real time to increase or decrease their speed or pressure of compressions. Advisors to the team were Associate Professor Ian White of the Fischell Department of Bioengineering and Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices , and physician scientist, entrepreneur, and Associate Dean for Innovation and Physician Science Development at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Dr. Jason Rose.

“The number one cause of death from opioids is respiratory failure,” explained team lead and Clark School senior Kelly Yeung, “so the best immediate treatment is to support respirations. But safe use of a BVM requires training: That’s why we developed this device, to empower people to perform life-saving breaths before EMS arrives,” said Yeung, who also works as an additive technician at Terrapin Works . “We’ve imagined that this could be similar to an automated external defibrillator for cardiac arrest—and stationed in similar locations.”

The Capstone Design Expo brought more than 500 senior-level students from across Maryland Engineering’s civil and environmental, aerospace, mechanical, and bioengineering programs to present their capstone projects. Working under the guidance of faculty members and industry experts, students engaged in a year-long engineering project process that culminated in the design competition judged by experts in their respective fields.

“I want to thank our students for designing these innovative engineering solutions to some of the grand challenges we’re facing. We are very proud. These projects point to your quality work and collaboration—and to your desire to make a difference in the world through engineering,” Clark School Dean Samuel Graham, Jr., told the participants at the event.

Capstone Design Expo Photo Gallery Recap Video

Civil and environmental engineering senior projects ranged from heat index and power outage emergency frameworks, to analysis of roadway infrastructure, to “cooler” solutions for bus stop design in Washington, D.C. Working under the guidance of Professor Deb Niemeier , the Clark Distinguished Chair in Energy and Sustainability, with senior project manager at Allan Myers Will Sigafoose as client contact, the department’s winning project, “ Alternative Central Avenue Conduit System ,” provides a case study in response to the Central Avenue Design-Build project in Baltimore and serves as a general guide for future conduit redevelopment projects.

“The students are eager to show what they’ve accomplished, not only solving engineering problems but helping to solve ethical and social issues, too,” said Nii O. Attoh-Okine , chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. “It’s not all about profit, but it’s about answering the question, ‘how did we touch others with our design’?”

Bioengineering and biocomputational engineering majors worked to make medicine safer, more effective, and more accessible through projects that aim to improve current standards of care for treating aneurysms, diagnosing Covid-19, improving the tracheostomy process, and more. The winning team’s project, “ A Modified Syringe Design to Simplify the Preparation of Weight-Based Pediatric Medication ,” proposes a cost-effective, user-friendly, syringe-like device that features an adjustment dial to reduce risk of error and improve pediatric patient outcomes.

Project judge Matthew Dowling ’12 is founder and chief scientific officer of biotechnology research company Medcura and a member of the department’s advisory board. Having participated in departmental capstone showcases for several years, he said he always enjoys the interaction with students. “I get to hear how they’re learning about bioengineering and applying what they learn,” he said. “It’s great how they’re partnered with clinicians who introduce them to real, unmet needs—that’s huge.”

Alison Flatau , chair of the Department of Aerospace Engineering, called the Capstone Design Expo “a fantastic opportunity for students and faculty.” She said she was impressed with how well teams of more than twenty students tasked with mission challenges were able to integrate their pieces of the larger, system-level scope. “It gave me a great sense of pride seeing how well prepared our students are for taking on the big and high-impact challenges that are ahead of them.”

Project judge Megan Bock ’06, M.Eng. ’10 , a missions systems engineer at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, remembers her own capstone process as a Clark School student. “I know what the capstone experience did for me. I learned a ton, and it was probably the most realistic simulation of life as a NASA engineer,” she said. That’s why she returns to campus: “I view this as part of the cycle of life, and I want to come back and see who I’m going to be working with someday.”

Harry Dankowicz , chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, noted the enormous diversity—and coverages—he saw at Capstone Design Expo. “Even in different engineering disciplines, our students are often tasked with the same kinds of challenges, and they have to bring in tools from outside of what they’re immediately learning,” he said. “There’s both the diversification of the problems and the convergences that really make a difference to solutions.”

As executive vice president and chief operating officer at the Housing Authority of Baltimore City, mechanical engineering alumna and project judge Monica Watkins ’94 is always on the lookout for tomorrow’s engineers. “I have made it my personal mission to be involved,” she said, and she liked what she saw. “What I’m observing is the thought process—the intentionality, the critical thinking, the strategic planning and design. We value those skills. Not just that you’re an engineer, but that you have the mindset to work through problems and recommend solutions that we may not have considered.”

For the Dean’s Award winners, the team is looking ahead to what’s next for their medical device to empower opioid overdose bystanders. “I was super stoked to hear from everyone that they wanted to see this go to market and that they see this as a viable solution,” said Yeung. “Moving forward I want to see where this goes. I think it could be something big.”

To read more about all 98 student teams, visit the Capstone Design Expo site .

Published May 8, 2024

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With a focus on social entrepreneurship, Eduardo is hoping to create more equitable opportunities for those with fewer resources and less access.

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By combining a degree in biomedical engineering with an M.B.A., Claudia plans to change millions of lives by creating life-saving drugs that can be distributed equitably.

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Chico State's Senior Capstone Expo showcases innovative student inventions

C hico State’s College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Construction Management held their Senior Capstone Design Expo on Friday.

The showcase allowed students to present different projects in areas like computer animation and game development, civil engineering, plus computer science.

One student, Christian Everett, demonstrated his project to the Northstate’s News’ Hannah Gutierrez. He created a visual range sensing visor for visual and hearing-impaired individuals.

He says faculty on campus have supported all students involved to bring their ideas to life.

“The faculty has been very generous in providing support for the project process. It’s one of the main features of the program so of course they have to, but I can say that they’ve gone above and beyond," said Everett.

The Capstone Design Program at Chico State works with senior students and industry sponsors to design and build inventions to aid in real life scenarios.

The expo was open to anyone wanting to learn more and see student projects.

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USM Interior Design Seniors Outline Healthcare Facilities for Capstone Project: Healing Through the Arts

Tue, 05/14/2024 - 08:42am | By: Ivonne Kawas

Seniors in the Interior Design program at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) designed healthcare facilities for a capstone project, using the historic Eureka High School in downtown Hattiesburg as a location to solve a design challenge: preserving a historical building while creating a therapeutic environment through various forms of art.

“Interior design has grown into a profession that is highly recognized for creating intentional environments,” said Alvis Lawson Jr., assistant teaching professor of Interior Design and program coordinator. “By setting the limitations of the capstone project to creating a care facility for patients dealing with a certain health issue while harnessing the power of art, our students were able to focus their research and design. To add an extra layer, each student’s work was located at the historic Eureka High School.”

Lawson highlights that there is an immense amount of research available on how physical environments impact healing with the aid of interior design. In this course, the students used the book “ Your Brain on Art ,” written by founder of the International Arts and Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Susan Magsamen and Google designer Ivy Ross, as a guide to tackle the design prompt based on evidence.

Abbie Dupre

Abbie Dupre, a native of Covington, La., created a concept facility called “Brushstrokes of Hope,” a Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) art therapy clinic aiming to facilitate healing and emotional well-being for American Veterans. ( View Capstone Flipbook )

Her designs blended history and architecture, honoring American Veterans with a red and blue color scheme and natural elements. By using biophilic design and curated lighting, Dupre created a calming environment, aiding in mental health recovery and PTSD treatment. The facility offers diverse art rooms for self-expression, empowering individuals within its transformative setting.

“The design of the historic Eureka High School embodies a blend of historical preservation and modern functionality, creating a space that honors the past while serving as a sanctuary for healing and therapy,” said Dupre. “The design elements selected for my concept reflect the school’s rich heritage, offering an innovative approach to therapy that not only celebrates resilience and transformation in Veterans with PTSD, but stays true to the essence of Eureka.”

Dupre provided insights into the creative and research process: “Due to the sensitive nature of PTSD, it was crucial to conduct thorough research to ensure that the clinic would provide a safe and supportive environment for American Veterans. This process was both informative and eye-opening, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of PTSD and the potential benefits of art therapy.

“This project allowed me to hone into my problem-solving skills, pushing myself out of my comfort zone,” said Dupre. “I was able to learn more about human centered and evidence-based design, while gaining valuable experience in hospitality design and historical preservation. Moving forward, I plan to take all that I have learned at Southern Miss and allow it to give me a newfound confidence in my work.”

Alexis D'Anjou

Alexis D'Anjou, a native of Byram, Miss., created a concept facility called “Alzheimer’s Arcadia,” a sanctuary where individuals with Alzheimer's disease and various forms of dementia find solace, stimulation, and healing. ( View Capstone Flipbook )

Each space within the facility was meticulously crafted by D'Anjou to address the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals living with Alzheimer’s. The facility offers sensory rooms that support healing in the main parts of the brain and body that the disease acts against.

D'Anjou's favorite spaces were the gallery lounge and the biophilic center. The gallery lounge doubles as a library and art gallery, with comfortable seating and a rotating display of digital artworks. The biophilic center, full of natural light and earthy tones, fosters a connection with nature with its unique design elements and features such as garlands, gardenias, and bird-inspired light fixtures.

D'Anjou highlights that she gathered valuable insights from experts on Alzheimer’s prior to designing the facility, including Dr. Mark Huff, associate professor in USM’s School of Psychology, and Victoria Farmer, life enrichment area director at Claiborne Senior Living.

“The insights provided by the experts were crucial for designing the spaces in the facility tailored to Alzheimer's patients,” said D'Anjou. “It helped me redefine standard caregiving by immersing residents in a curated environment that fosters therapeutic experiences through diverse artistic expressions.”

D'Anjou added: “I'm eager to apply the skills I learned at Southern Miss in my post-graduation endeavors. Whether working on commercial or residential projects, I'll continue to leverage these skills to their fullest.”

Categories: Arts and Sciences

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