Research at the BioAugmentative Interfaces Laboratory is at the intersection of materials science, electrical engineering and medicine. Projects primarily revolve around biomaterials and bioelectronics for the goal of tissue repair, modulation and/or organ augmentation. The team is multidisplinary often requiring much in depth understanding of materials science, electronics and physiology/anatomy. Some of our current projects are as follows:
Neuromodulation technologies
The BioAugmentative Interfaces Laboratory develops fully implantable neural modulation systems, particularly for optical stimulation of the spinal cord. We have developed programmable implant platforms that integrate ultra-low-power profile (sub-microamp electronics), wireless charging, and flexible optical probes. The lab is currently advancing on-the-fly programmable implants for spinal cord modulation in freely behaving small rodents.
Bladder management devices
The lab also focuses on more immediate solutions for individuals with paralysis or other conditions that deteriorate different organ functions. More specifically, the lab currently works on introducing feedback-based smart biomaterials with integrated sensors and control systems for underactive and also overactive bladders. Device design and developing smart biomaterials along with computational modeling are important and ongoing efforts of the team.
Machine learning for kirigami-inspired complexes
Machine learning algorithms are being developed to enable programmable compliance and complex 3D actuation specifically using kirigami structures. We aim to enable programmable 3D actuation using simple planar mechanisms to automatically discover optimal cut patterns for prescribed functionalities. Mathematical modeling and AI engineering are at the core of this work.
Wearables and exogloves
Wearables are being developed to reinforce the muscle movement for those with weakened activities. The work particularly requires efforts in materials science and signal processing.
Keywords
Bioelectronics; Biomaterials; Neural modulation; Bladder management; Traumatic nerve repair.