BIEG 5301 Feedback Control System    3 Credits

This course emphasizes analysis and synthesis of closed loop control systems using both classical and state-space approaches with an emphasis on electro-mechanical systems. The mathematical requirements include the Laplace transform methods of solving differential equations, matrix algebra and basic complex variables. The discussion of classical control system design includes the modeling of dynamic systems, block diagram representation, time and frequency domain methods, transient and steady state response, stability criteria, controller action [Proportional (P), proportional and integral (PI), Proportional, integral and derivative (PID) and pseudo-derivatives feedback], root locus methods, the methods of Nyquist and Bode and dynamics compensation techniques. The discussion of state-space methods includes formulation and solution (analytical and computer-based) of the state equations and pole-placement design. The course integrates the use of computer-aided analysis and design tools (MATLAB) so as to ensure relevance to the design of real world controlled electro-mechanical systems using case studies and applications to electrical and mechanical systems. Includes hands-on lab (hardware-based) exploration of PID control systems. Undergraduate equivalent: ENGR 4301. Previously ME 0400.

BIEG 5309 Biosensors    3 Credits

This course will provide an overview of biosensors, including their use in pharmaceutical research, diagnostic testing, and policing the environment. Topics include the fabrication, characterization, testing, and simulation of biosensors. The phenomenon of transducers, biosensor structure, sensor performance, and simulations utilizing molecular simulation software will also be covered. Graduate students who intend to pursue a MS in BME can take this course.

BIEG 5311 Biomaterials    3 Credits

This course will cover the introductory level of understanding on the different types of biomaterials used in biomedical industry, their design and synthesis. Examples include implants, stents, catheters, smart polymer gels, bone grafts, and tissue scaffolds. Modern biology in biomedical engineering such as but not limited to protein adsorption, immuno-isolation, and regenerative medicine will be covered. Ethical issues in biomedical engineering will also be discussed. Current innovative research on nano-biotechnology that extends to 3D bio-matrix, advanced diagnostics, dental composites, sealants, and adhesives.

BIEG 5314 Introduction to Molecular Modeling    3 Credits

This course will cover methodological and practical aspects of the application of system analysis and computational tools to biological and biomedical problems. It will cover computational modeling of biological macromolecules such as proteins, DNA, and synthetic self-assembling materials such as polymers, crystals, colloids, and amphiphiles. The course provides the resources to use Visual Molecular Dynamics (VMD) and Nanoscale Molecular Dynamics (NAMD) to solve computational problems related to protein interactions in case of diseases and protein folding.

BIEG 5319 Advanced Experimental Design in Biomedical Engineering    3 Credits

How do biomedical engineers know which medical problems are worth solving? How do they know that their inventions will work? How do they know that these inventions will be safe across a diverse population? This course uses a “flipped classroom” approach to answer these questions. It will build student skill in experimental design across the diverse disciplines of biomedical engineering with a focus on statistical analysis. Students will spend the first half of the semester reviewing/analyzing classic literature across biomedical engineering and performing classic experiments within our field. Students will spend the second half of the semester designing and performing their own custom-designed experiment that will be presented at Fairfield’s Innovative Research Symposium.

BIEG 5333 Biomedical Visualization    3 Credits

An introduction to 3D biomedical visualization. Various technologies are introduced, include ultrasound, MRI, CAT scans, PET scans, etc. Students will learn about spatial data structures, computational geometry and solid modeling with applications in 3D molecular and anatomical modeling. Undergraduate equivalent: BIEG 4333.

BIEG 5335 Clinical Engineering    3 Credits

Biomedical engineering is defined by the application of engineering design in service of human health. To solve problems in healthcare, it is crucial to understand the clinical environment within which biomedical engineers develop solutions. This course will provide students with the opportunity to work with faculty and students in the Egan School Simulation Lab to gain an understanding of modern clinical care and work collaboratively on solutions to existing problems in healthcare. Students will have an opportunity to use existing medical devices and gain an understanding of their fundamental operating principles. Students will gain an understanding of the societal underpinnings contributing to existing disparities in healthcare outcomes and how previous technological development has exacerbated to these disparities.

BIEG 5350 Medical Device Design    3 Credits

This project-based course focuses on important stages of the medical device product lifecycle including: identifying unmet clinical and global health needs, the FDA approval process, material selection, biocompatibility, ethical considerations, intellectual property, and post-market surveillance of similar products. Students will generate project ideas and design a medical device. Students are required to conduct an independent research, write a research report, create a poster and present the research in annual research symposium at the university or elsewhere. Undergraduate Equivalent BIEG 4350.

BIEG 5375 Bioelectronics    3 Credits

Bioelectronics have emerged as an exciting research area due to the integration of molecular biology with electronics to create fundamental devices. This course is intended for senior and graduate level engineering students. It will introduce fundamentals of bioelectronics through chemical, biochemical and biophysical concepts from the engineering perspective. It will further apply these concepts to the areas of electron transport through biological macromolecules, microfluidics, electrochemical techniques, DNA and neuron-based electronics, biomaterials and semiconductor-based bioelectronics.

BIEG 5387 Instrumental Analysis in Biomedical Engineering    3 Credits

This course will give an overview on several important analytical tools for characterizing the nanomaterials that are functionally engineered towards biomedical applications. Quantification of mechanical, electrical, electronic and biological properties of the nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, quantum dots, nanowires, polymeric nanoparticles and biomedical nanomaterials will be discussed. Fundamental principles of the associated instruments and the evaluation of the physical, chemical and microscopy methods for materials in nano-regime will be highlighted. Modern material science depends on the use of a set of analytical methods that are used normally in specialized laboratories. This course will help the students get familiar with the basics of such specialized methods, their range of applicability and reliability, especially when the materials under test are in sub-100nm dimensions.

BIEG 5403 Advanced Biomechanics    3 Credits

This course introduces the applications of continuum mechanics to the understanding of various biological tissue properties and biological fluid flow. The structure, function and mechanical properties of bone, muscle, blood vessels and blood flow will be examined. Conservation laws and constitutive equations for solid, fluid, and intermediate biomaterials will be covered. Critical analysis of current research in the field of biomechanics is also emphasized.

BIEG 5407 Computational Genomics    3 Credits

This course will provide an overview of computational genomics. Students will obtain skill in analyzing genomic data and sequencing experiments. The focus will be on achieving proficiency in data management and processing based on popular file formats in genomic biology.

BIEG 5415 Engineering Applications of Numerical Methods    3 Credits

This course provides students with the theoretical basis to proceed in future studies. Topics include root-finding, interpolation, linear algebraic systems, numerical integration, numerical solution of ordinary and partial differential equations, modeling, simulation, initial boundary value problems, and two point boundary value problems. Cross-listed with MEEG 5415, ECEG 5415.

BIEG 5990 Independent Study    1-3 Credits

Graduate students pursue special topics, projects, and/or readings in selected areas. Students must meet with the instructor to discuss the proposed topic of study. Enrollment by departmental approval only.

BIEG 6971 Thesis I    3 Credits

The master's thesis tests students' abilities to formulate a problem, solve it, and communicate the results. The thesis is supervised on an individual basis. A thesis involves the ability to gather information, examine it critically, think creatively, organize effectively, and write convincingly; it is a project that permits students to demonstrate skills that are basic to academic and industry work. The student must also submit a paper for possible inclusion in a refereed journal appropriate to the topic.

BIEG 6972 Thesis II    3 Credits

The master's thesis tests students' abilities to formulate a problem, solve it, and communicate the results. The thesis is supervised on an individual basis. A thesis involves the ability to gather information, examine it critically, think creatively, organize effectively, and write convincingly; it is a project that permits students to demonstrate skills that are basic to academic and industry work. The student must also submit a paper for possible inclusion in a refereed journal appropriate to the topic.