Research Overview

Two students, one female and one male, look at vial full of material. They are in a lab space.

Biomedical Engineering Research

Research in the Department of Biomedical Engineering is focused on four primary areas: Imaging technologies, Medical devices, Regenerative medicine and Sensing and monitoring systems. Toward impacting health outcomes, a hallmark of our research is the focus on translation to the clinic and entrepreneurship.

Female researcher looking at illuminated arm experiment

Imaging Technologies

Research efforts are largely based in optical microscopy, spectroscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging for the purposes of improving the diagnosis of cancer and infectious diseases.

Photo of a small spring looking device with an expandable polymer base.

Medical Devices

With a strong translational focus and extensive ties to industry, research topics include on-chip systems, devices to support heart healing, interventional stroke and aneurysm treatment, and pediatric devices.

Regenerative Medicine

Research advances in biomaterials and biomanufacturing include "smart" materials, biomimetic nanomaterials, 3D printing strategies, cell manufacturing, and wound hemostasis.

Research places a microchip onto wearable medical device.

Sensing & Monitoring Systems

Supported by the Center for Remote Health Technologies, research efforts are focused on sensors and point-of-care devices for on-demand detection of biomarkers for chronic disease.

Stethoscope on a chart for monitoring blood sugar

Hydrogels with fine-toothed molecular combs could make enduring glucose-monitoring implants

Researchers at Texas A&M University have fine-tuned the properties of a class of hydrogels so that they can hold on to glucose-sensing molecules more tightly while still allowing glucose to flow in and out.

Tian receives Trailblazer Award for protein biosensor research

Dr. Limei Tian received the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering’s Trailblazer R21 Award for her research in biosensors. Tian’s research is expanding the capabilities of biosensors to continuously track protein biomarkers, which could play a role in increasing rapid response to diseases.

Pettigrew named 2020 winner of prestigious Vannevar Bush Award

Dr. Roderic Pettigrew will be presented with the National Science Board's Vannevar Bush Award. It honors lifelong science and technology leaders who have made exceptional contributions to the welfare of the nation through public service in science and technology and in shaping public policy.

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Precise Advanced Technologies and Health Systems for Underserved Populations

Funded by an NSF Engineering Research Center grant, PATHS-UP is working to develop revolutionary and cost-effective technologies and systems at the point-of-care.

Southwest National Pediatric Device Innovation Consortium

The SWPDC is a virtual accelerator that supports pediatric device innovators throughout the pediatric device life cycle and is supported by a grant from the FDA.

Other Resources

The Department of Biomedical Engineering regularly collaborates with members of the below groups of both on-campus and external partners.