Robert G. Radwin (Chair) 2128 Engineering Centers Building 1550 Engineering Drive Madison, WI 53706

Tel: 608/263-6596 Fax: 608/265-9239 bmechair@engr.wisc.edu www.engr.wisc.edu/bme

Professor Ray Vanderby, Jr. uses biomechanical testing equipment to evaluate an orthopedic fixation system for stabilizing lumbar vertebrae. Vertebral bodies are being loaded to simulate spinal flexion, compression and torsion, (56K JPG).

Meeting the needs of students

In response to student demand, the college has reintroduced the Biomedical Engineering (BME) Master of Science Degree Program, combining fundamentals of biomedical science with advanced methods of engineering. The program began enrolling students in spring 1997. Students learn to design new medical instruments and devices; apply engineering principles for understanding and repairing the human body and other biological systems; and use engineering tools for decision making and cost containment. New BS and PhD degrees in BME are now being planned.

The BME program is truly interdisciplinary, drawing on expertise from the Departments of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Engineering Physics, and Mechanical Engineering, as well as the Medical School, School of Nursing, College of Letters and Science, School of Pharmacy and School of Education.

Individualized coursework encouraged

BME students set an individualized course of study. Specific course selection is flexible and draws upon a variety of courses available within the college. Additionally, there are numerous courses open to BME graduate students through the Medical School and other UW-Madison schools and colleges. BME-related researcher centers--such as the Biomedical Engineering Center, the Center for Health Systems Research and Analysis, and the Trace Research and Development Center--also provide students with numerous opportunities.

Employment Opportunities

Biomedical engineers are employed in industry, education, hospitals, research facilities and government agencies. Often, they serve a coordinating or interfacing function, drawing on their background in both fields. For example, in industry they may create designs where an in-depth understanding of living systems and technology is essential. Or they may be involved in performance testing of a new or proposed product. Government positions often involve product testing and safety, as well as establishing safety standards for devices. They may also build customized devices for special health care or research needs. At research institutions, biomedical engineers supervise labs and equipment and participate in or direct research activities in collaboration with other researchers with such backgrounds as medicine, physiology and nursing.