Bryan Heiderscheit, PT, PhD
Professor: Orthopedics and Rehabilitation
Affiliate Professor: Biomedical Engineering
Affiliate Professor: Clinical Investigation
Director: UW Runners' Clinic
Director: Badger Athletic Performance Research, UW Athletics

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Email: heiderscheit@ortho.wisc.edu
Office: 4120 Medical Sciences Center

Darryl Thelen, PhD
Professor: Mechanical Engineering
Professor: Biomedical Engineering
Affiliate Professor: Orthopedics and Rehabilitation

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Email: dgthelen@wisc.edu
Office: 3053 Mechanical Engineering Building

Scott Crawford, PhD, CSCS
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Orthopedics & Rehanilitation
PhD Biomedical Engineering, Ohio State University, 2015
BS Mechanical Engineering, Cedarville University, 2009

My research interests focus on comprehensive approaches to human health and performance. Specifically, I am interested in the interplay between tissue and joint biomechanics as it pertains to healthy movement and function and providing practitioners valuable, objective measures to inform decisions related to the resumption of normal activity following injury or surgery. My current project utilizes a quantitative ultrasound imaging analysis method for investigating the effects of hamstring strain injury on tissue structure and function.

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Email: Crawford@ortho.wisc.edu

Stephanie Cone
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Mechanical Engineering
PhD Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina, 2019
BS Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 2014

My research interests focus on improving our understanding of natural changes in the structure, function, and composition of musculoskeletal soft tissues during childhood and adolescent growth in order to improve outcomes for clinical interventions in pediatric patients. Specifically, my work involves the use of non-invasive sensors to study age-specific regional stiffness maps of the Achilles tendon.

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Email: sgcone@wisc.edu

Ana Ebrahimi, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Mechanical Engineering
PhD Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, 2018
BS Biomedical Engineering, University of California-Davis, 2012

My research interests are in understanding the mechanics driving how humans walk with a gait disorder, such as Cerebral Palsy. In addition to being able to measure motion and forces of the limbs, we now have a novel device to noninvasively measure tendon loading. My research will involve conducting movement analyses to assess changes in kinetics, kinematics, and muscle/tendon activity with age (from children to older adults).

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Email: aebrahimi2@wisc.edu

Robin Pomeroy, MS
Research Specialist: Department of Mechanical Engineering
MS Kinesiology, UW-Milwaukee, 2012
BS Kinesiology (emphasis Biomechanics), Purdue University, 2008

I spent a few years working in the Shriners pediatric gait lab in Sacramento, California before joining the UW NMBL research team as a research specialist. I have experience in motion capture and analysis, marker placement, gait analysis, and EMG collections.

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Email: rpomeroy@wisc.edu

Josh Roth, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Mechanical Engineering
PhD Biomedical Engineering, Univ. of California-Davis, 2016
MS Biomedical Engineering, Univ.of California-Davis, 2014
BS Mechanical Engineering, California Polytechnic State University, 2009

My research interests are related to improving existing treatments and developing novel patient-specific treatments for osteoarthritis (OA). Some of my current research focuses on improving the outcomes of total knee arthroplasty, the most common treatment of end-stage OA, by implementing a more patient-specific approach to planning and executing the procedure. Another focus area is to investigate how both biomechanical and biological factors affect the outcome of different treatment options for OA of varying severity. A better understanding of these factors should enable clinicians to identify the optimal treatment for an individual patient that best restores normal knee function and keeps the patient active.

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Email: jdroth2@wisc.edu

Daniel Cobian, PhD, DPT
Faculty Associate: Department of Orthopedics
PhD Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, 2015
Doctor of Physical Therapy, UW-Madison, 2010
BS Biology and Kinesiology, UW-Madison, 2006

My research interests are to help us better understand the neuromuscular implications of musculoskeletal trauma, characterize the effects of injury on movement biomechanics and sports performance, and determine how to best prescribe and dose rehabilitation interventions to facilitate improved outcomes and long term quality of life.

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Email: cobian@pt.wisc.edu

Mikel Stiffler, MS
Program Specialist: Dept. of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, and PhD student in Clinical Investigation
BA Exercise & Sport Science, UNC-CH, 2012
MS Kinesiology (Biomechanics), UW-Madison, 2015

My research interests broadly include injury prevention and recovery. My current projects focus on measuring functional recovery after ACL-reconstruction, identifying relationships between gait mechanics and injury in distance runners, and using the SEBT as a screening tool for injury risk.

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Email: stiffler@ortho.wisc.edu

Rachel Lenhart, MD, PhD
Medical Student
PhD Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012
BS Biomedical Eng., Univ. of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2008

My research interests include neuromuscular biomechanics, orthopedics, and rehabilitation. I am currently working on a project looking at the surgical correction of crouch gait in children with cerebral palsy. As an MD/PhD student, I am hoping to combine this sort of research with a clinical practice in pediatric orthopedic surgery.

Primary Projects: Surgical Correction of Pediatric Gait Disorders , Muscle Function during Gait , Step Rate Manipulation

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Email: rlenhart@wisc.edu

Jen Sanfilippo, MS
Coordinator, Badger Athletic Performance and PhD student in Clinical Investigation
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2011
BS Kinesiology, UW-Madison, 2009
BS Biology, UW-Madison, 2005

My research interests are rehabilitation and injury prevention. My thesis is on hamstring rehabilitation and re-injury prevention. I also currently work with UW Athletics Sports Performance looking at biomechanic differences and their effects on injury risk.

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Email: js1@athletics.wisc.edu

Drew Lukes, DPT
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of Minnesota, 2019
BA in Public Communication, UW Eau Claire, 2009

My research interests include injury recovery and prevention. As a an aspect of my Sports Physical Therapy residency, I will be working to help identify possible relationships between running/jumping mechanics and ACL injury.

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Email: DLukes@uwhealth.org

Sarah Gamillo
Graduate Student in Physical Therapy
BS Health Science Pre-PT, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, 2017

My research interests focus on sports medicine rehabilitation, specifically how to help athletes return to sport with minimal complications and improve their outcomes. The current project I am working on involves examining the relationships between quadriceps strength, rate of torque development, time from surgery, and knee joint kinetics during running in collegiate athletes after sustaining an ACL tear. As a physical therapy student, this experience will help me to integrate evidence based practice into my future career, ultimately improving the care of my patients. An aspiration of mine is to one day develop research studies of my own.

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Email: sgamillo@wisc.edu

Jeremy Portillo
Undergraduate Student in Kinesiology

Currently, I assist Dr. Daniel Cobian with understanding the implications of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears on lower limb function. Specially, we are focused on the quadricep’s neuromuscular rate of activation post-ACL reconstruction, and how this effects performance in counter-movement jump and treadmill running activities.

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Email: jportillo@wisc.edu

Eli Dawson
Graduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
BS Mechanical Engineering, Gonzaga University, 2018

My current research encompasses 3D ultrasound imaging of tendons, the most prevalent being the Achilles. Goals for this imaging are measuring basic geometry, such as the cross-sectional area, while also identifying muscle-tendon boundaries. I also hope to delineate subtendons in the Achilles to perform finite element analysis of wave propagation amongst them.

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Email: epdawson@wisc.edu

Jonathon Blank
Graduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
BS Mechanical Engineering, The Ohio State University, 2018

My research interests involve experimental biomechanics and modeling, as well as the development of intraoperative sensors to enhance surgical procedures, such as total knee arthroplasty. I am currently working on a project involving the evaluation of a novel shear wave tensiometer to assess ligament tension during a TKA procedure.

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Email: jlblank@wisc.edu

Sara Harper
Graduate Student in Biomedical Engineering
BS Biomedical & Mechanical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 2014-2018

As a lifelong athlete, I am motivated to understand the mechanics behind various human motions, especially in individuals whose mechanics have been affected by a disorder, injury, or other condition. Specifically, I am interested in exploring the physiological cause of such changes in the mechanics, with the intent to better inform the development of treatment plans for afflicted patients and injury-prevention training programs for athletes. In my current research, I am focusing on adapting our tensiometer for use with the patellar and quadriceps tendons in the knee. By accomplishing this, we will be able to noninvasively measure the loads imposed on these tendons during several physical activities. In combination with motion capture and EMG analysis, the tensiometer data will allow us to better understand the mechanics behind gait disorders such as Cerebral Palsy.

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Email: seharper@wisc.edu

Dylan Schmitz
Graduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Dordt College, 2013-2017

My research deals with the modeling of tendon and ligament to better understand how variations in morphology impact the characterization of structure stress. This will serve to enhance current ex vivo models as well as interpret new in vivo behavior.

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Email: dgschmitz@wisc.edu

Britta Anderson
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering

In my current research, I am assisting graduate student, Sarah Denning with the design and implementation of a 3DUS system. This system will act as an alternative to MRI to study the effects of aging on lower leg muscle architecture and geometry. Ultimately, the information gathered will be used to aid collaborators in the development of a computational model of the lower leg.

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Email: banderson26@wisc.edu

John Zunker
Research Intern in Mechanical Engineering
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2018

My area of research focuses on reducing falls in aging populations by augmenting balance through lower limb sensory enhancement. To accomplish this, I am investigating a phenomenon known as stochastic resonance, which uses small amounts of tactile vibration to improve the responsiveness of sensory receptors in the human body.

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Email: jzunker@wisc.edu

Jack Martin
Graduate student in Materials Science
BS Chemical & Biological Eng., Colorado State Univ., 2011

Research Focus: My research is focused on the mechanical properties and behavior of tendon at the macro- and micro-scales. At the macro-scale, I am interested in determining whether quantitative ultrasound techniques can be used to predict mechanical properties like strength and stiffness in vivo. At the micro-scale, I am investigating the use of specialized microscopy techniques in the characterization of tendon cell deformations due to tendon strain to better understand mechanotransduction processes in tendon.

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Email: jamartin8@wisc.edu

Evan Nelson, DPT
Graduate Student in Clinical Investigation
Assistant Professor: Department of Family Medicine
DPT Duke University 2007
BA Biology, Luther College 2004

Current research projects examine prevention and treatment of running related injuries using cadence change and video gait analysis as clinical practice interventions.

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Email: nelson3@pt.wisc.edu

Christa Wille, PT, DPT
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy
PhD student in Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2019
Doctor of Physical Therapy, UW-Madison, 2015
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012

My research interests are focused on the biomechanics of sports-related injuries. Current research projects include utilizing quantitative magnetic resonance imaging, such as diffusion tensor imaging, to better understand hamstring strain injuries. Improved understanding of how muscle microstructure changes at the time of injury and throughout the following recovery period can improve the ability of sports medicine clinicians to monitor and progress rehabilitation following a muscle strain injury. Other research interests include running gait analysis and biomechanics associated with running-related injuries.

Primary Project: Step Rate Manipulation

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Email: cmwille@ortho.wisc.edu

Colin Smith
Graduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015
BS Mechanical Engineering, Clemson University, 2011

My research is focused on musculoskeletal modeling and simulation. I use these tools to study knee mechanics and the progression of osteoarthritis following ACL reconstruction. I am also interested in model validation, image based modeling and probabilistic modeling.

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Email: crsmith25@wisc.edu

Alex Teague
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

My research interests focus on understanding the biomechanics of the leg and using that knowledge to improve patient outcomes. Specifically, I am assisting Dr. Josh Roth to characterize the mechanical properties of the MCL and LCL of the human knee and applying that information to improve prosthetic alignment in total knee arthroplasties.

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Email: ateague@wisc.edu

Isaac Loegering
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2017-2019
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013-2017

My research interests lie in lower limb biomechanics. I am currently studying the mechanics of the aging Achilles tendon. Using ultrashort echo time (UTE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), I can characterize the free and bound water of the tendon and assess differences in structure and composition between young and older adults. Also, I have been working with Ana Ebrahimi and Robin Pomeroy on several other project in which we measure Achilles and patellar tendon stress during walking and running using shear wave tensiometry. For these projects, I measure the moment arm and cross-sectional area of both the Achilles tendon and patellar tendon using ultrasound imaging and motion capture.

Previously, I worked with Mike Vignos on the dynamic MRI project investigating how ACL reconstruction patients' joint mechanics change with an ACL injury and following reconstruction. I assisted with data collection, and I validated the semi-automated image segmentation software used in this project for segmentation of MR images.

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Email: iloegering@wisc.edu

Jared Muench
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

My research interests are focused in better understanding the cause of and response to injury in tendon on the microscopic scale. My current research involves imaging partially-cut tendon fascicles under loading and observing the resulting strain grid deformations. This will add to the current knowledge of how shearing affects cellular viability and load redistribution around defects in the tendon hierarchy.

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Email: jmuench@wisc.edu

John Kipp
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Grace Restle
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

My current research endeavors aid in the development of an intraoperative sensor. Specifically, I am developing a tendon phantom model and loading device to further the development of our measurement systems. My involvement in this lab compliments other academic pursuits well especially in the development of an orthopedic knee brace for senior capstone design.

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Email: grestle@wisc.edu

Jenna Blair
Undergraduate student in Kinesiology
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Alec Hill
MS, Graduate Student in Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Samuel Acuña
PhD Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2019
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015
MS Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young Univ., 2012

I'm interested in designing assistive/rehabilitative devices for the elderly and those with neuromuscular disability. My current focus is developing vibration devices that improve degraded plantar sensation, with the ultimate goal of reducing the occurrence of falls. I'm also examining how neural stimulation on the tongue influences walking EMG patterns in people with traumatic brain injury.

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Email: saacuna@wisc.edu

Charley Liu
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Michael Vignos
PhD Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2018
MS Mechanical Engineering, Ohio State University, 2014
BS Biomedical Engineering, Ohio State University, 2013

My research interests lie in musculoskeletal modeling and experimental biomechanics, related to the progression of osteoarthritis following an ACL injury. Currently, I am working on the development of a subject-specific knee model with geometry derived from MR images. I am also assisting on a project using dynamic MRI to investigate how ACL reconstruction patients' joint mechanics change with an ACL injury and following reconstruction.

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Email: mvignos@wisc.edu

Sarah Denning
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2018
BS Biomedical Engineering, Bucknell University, 2016

My current research is focused on using quantitative MRI and ultrasound to characterize properties of the Achilles tendon and other musculotendinous structures of the lower leg. The goal is to determine how these detectable properties change with age in order to better understand what happens as we age and how these structural changes may correlate with injury risk.

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Email: scdenning@wisc.edu

Herman Feller
MS Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Maddie Honke
BS Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Leslie Franczek
BS Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Emily Keuler
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2018
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2016

My research is focused on device design, more specifically designing a device that is able to measure the speed of a mechanically induced wave travelling along a tendon. Currently I am working to adapt a device that has been successfully used on the Achilles tendon to also be used on the patellar and hamstring tendons.

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Email: emkeuler@wisc.edu

Joseph Towles, PhD
Research Scientist: Department of Mechanical Engineering
PhD Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, 2003

My research interests are in translational studies aimed at elucidating the mechanics and control of the hand following neurologic and musculoskeletal injury - such as spinal cord injury, stroke, and peripheral neuropathy - with the goal of developing innovative rehabilitative and surgical interventions that improve grasp function. Computational and experimental approaches are used to investigate intrinsic characteristics of muscles, neuromuscular control and sensorimotor integration in the context of functional restoration of grasp.

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Email: towles@engr.wisc.edu
Office: 3035 Mechanical Engineering Building

Moria Bittman, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Mechanical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email: bittmann2@wisc.edu

Scott Brandon, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Mechanical Engineering
Postdoc University of New Brunswick, 2015
PhD Mechanical & Materials Eng, Queen's University, 2015
MS Mechanical & Materials Eng, Queen's University, 2009
BScEng Mechanical & Materials Eng, Western Univ., 2007

My research investigates how the human musculoskeletal system is affected by degenerative changes, surgical interventions, and rehabilitative devices. I combine experimental methods (motion capture, inertial measurements, strain gauges, etc) with simulation-based approaches (SIMM, OpenSim) to understand how joint and muscle mechanics are altered by both observed and hypothetical perturbations.
My current projects are:
i) simulating the relationship between joint stability and abnormal muscular control in subjects with knee osteoarthritis,
ii) simulating the effects of surgical treatment for children with cerebral palsy,
iii) investigating novel methods for non-invasive in vivo measurement of tendon loading.

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Email: sbrandon2@wisc.edu

Corey Block
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Lauren Erickson
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

John Scerpella
MPH, graduate student in Public Health
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Madalyn Pechmann, BS
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

My research interests are in the biomechanics of the knee, specifically following injuries. I am assisting Mike Vignos with the dynamic MRI project that looks at the changes in joint mechanics in patients with and ACL injury.

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Email: mpechmann@wisc.edu

Alex Ehlers, BS, MS
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

My research interests lie in biomechanics, specifically rehabilitation and injury prevention. I am currently working with Jarred Kaiser and Rachel Lenhart on research concerning muscle fatigue during cycling.

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Email: acehlers@wisc.edu

James Hermus, BS
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

My research has focused on the creation of musculoskeletal models to investigate ACL injury and its relation to osteoarthritis. I have also designed and 3D printed numerous parts for use in different projects: remote stochastic resonance, ultrasound elastography and fiducial markers for Dynamic MRI validation using motion capture.

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Email: jhermus@wisc.edu

Nicholas Mauer, BS
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

I'm helping on the study of how ACL reconstruction can contribute to osteoarthritis and how to fix this. I work mostly with computer modeling, laser scanning, and dissections of pig and/or human knees. Also, I enjoy tennis.

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Email: njmaurer@wisc.edu

Liga Blyholder
Graduate Student in Public Health
UWNMBL Alumna

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Email:

Amanda Gallow, PT, DPT
Sports Physical Therapy Resident, UW Sports Rehab
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Ohio State University, 2012
BS Pre-Physical Therapy, University of Dayton, 2009

My current research interests are focused on the return to running post partum. I am currently working on a review paper detailing the musculoskeletal, physiological, biomechanical and various other changes that occur throughout pregnancy and during the post partum period.

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Email: agallow@uwhealth.org

Jarred Kaiser, PhD
UWNMBL Alumnus
PhD Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012
BS Mechanical Engineering, Ohio State University, 2010

My research interests include in vivo characterization of joint and tissue mechanics, and the role of altered mechanics following disease, injury, and/or surgery on the degradation of tissue. My dissertation uses a novel dynamic MRI technique to measure knee cartilage contact following ACL-reconstruction in order to examine how altered knee mechanics affect progression of early osteoarthritis.

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Email: jmkaiser2@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Postdoctoral Fellow, Boston University

Carrie Francis, PhD
UWNMBL Alumna
PhD Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2016
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012
BS Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, 2009

I am interested in biomechanical analysis of gait disorders. More specifically I am interested in mechanics and treatment options for equinus gait in kids with Cerebral Palsy (with a focus on contributions from the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles). I'm also starting a project involving the evaluation of a new rehabilitation method for adults with traumatic brain injuries.

Primary Project: Muscle Function during Gait

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Email: cfrancis2@wisc.edu

Erik Crook, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015

I am currently working with Rachel to analyze the differences in knee geometry between control patients and those with cerebral palsy to better understand the success rate of distal femoral extension osteotomy and patellar tendon advancement.

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Post Graduation: Mechanical Design Engineer at Milwaukee Electric Tool (Milwaukee, WI)

Brett Parendo, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015

I am working in a group to investigate osteoarthritis in patients that had ACL-reconstructive surgery. The lab group is using dynamic MRI to study the patients' knees. As my part of the group, I will be redesigning a human knee phantom that mimics walking. This device will assess the accuracy of the dynamic MR imaging algorithm that was developed by the lab.

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Post Graduation: Engineer at Milwaukee Electric Tool (Milwaukee, WI)

Shawn Patel, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015

I am writing software to measure aspects of an athlete's performance while jumping on force plates.

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Email: skpatel6@wisc.edu

Nicki Ruegsegger, DPT
UWNMBL Alumna
DPT Physical Therapy, UW-Madison, 2015
BS Kinesiology, UW-Madison, 2013

I am currently working on a project to help determine the effects of concussion on balance performance using the Star Excursion Balance Test and other clinical measures.

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Email: nruegsegger@wisc.edu

Kevin Biese, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Kinesiology, UW-Madison, 2015

I am working on a project to determine how concussions effect division I student-athletes' Star Excursion Balance Test scores. I also maintain the Badger Athletic Performance's database information regarding injury status of the student-athletes.

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Email: kbiese@wisc.edu

Megan Courtney, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015

In the past, I've worked on a radial expanding uterine cervical dilator that, once inserted through the cervical canal, could be controlled by a surgeon to radially dilate the cervix. I am currently working on magnetic retention of facial prostheses to body piercings for patients with microtia or people affected by accidents or birth defects.

Jason Franz, PhD
UWNMBL Alumnus
PhD Integrative Physiology, CU-Boulder, 2012
MS Engineering Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 2006
BS Engineering Science and Mech., Virginia Tech, 2004

The overall goal of my research is to better understand how advancing age affects the neuromuscular biomechanics of human movement. I use an integrative approach that combines motion analysis and electromyography with musculoskeletal simulation and tissue imaging. Ultimately, I use the insights gained from my research to develop novel rehabilitation strategies aimed at preserving the independence and quality of life of older adults.

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Post Graduation: Assistant Professor Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill North Carolina State University

Neel Kapoor, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Biology, UW-Madison, 2015

In the current literature there are no studies that have determined a relationship between being a single vs. a multiple sport athletes and injury. I am currently working on developing a survey that would help determine if and how an athlete's history, such as being involved in single or multiple sports, relates to the probability of injury.

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Email: nskapoor@wisc.edu

Stephanie O'Leary, BS
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

Research Focus: Cadaver-based Modeling of Improved Tendon Transfer Procedure to Restore Grasp following Spinal Cord Injury

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Email: soleary2@wisc.edu

Kristen Rasske, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2016
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014

My interests are in biomechanics and injury prevention for athletic performance. I am currently working with Jason Franz, PhD on a study of how the mechanics of the Achilles tendon change as we age.

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Email: krasske@wisc.edu

Michael Schmidt, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2015
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014

My research interest is focused on biomechanics, specifically human dynamics and orthopedics, for rehabilitation purposes.

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Post Graduation: Project Engineer at Mueller Sports Medicine (Prairie du Sac, WI)

Keith Knurr, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS, Kinesiology, UW-Madison, 2015

I am working with vertical jump data collected from the student-athletes in Badger Athletic Performance. My focus will be on exploring the relationship between landing mechanics and injury.

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Email: kknurr@wisc.edu

Stephen Young, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013

My research interest is in biomechanics as it applies to orthopedics. The research I am involved in is concerned with investigating changes in knee kinematics after ACL reconstruction.

Erin Jamar
UWNMBL Alumnus
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering

I am investigating the relationship between vitamin D status and athletic performance measures such as vertical jump, Star Excursion Balance Test, and body composition.

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Email: ejamar@wisc.edu

Taylor Lamberty, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014

Research Focus: I am interested in biomechanics as it applies to orthopedics. I am currently working on a project concerning the knee and reconstructed anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) angles.

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Post Graduation: Manufacturing Engineer at Boston Scientific

Krista Marshall
UWNMBL Alumna
Undergraduate in Chemical Engineering, UW-Madison

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Email: knmarshall@wisc.edu

Maria Isabel V. Orselli, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Physics (focus in biomechanics), University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, 2008
BS Physics, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, 2004

My overall research interests are in biomechanics and musculoskeletal modeling and their application in rehabilitation and sports. My current work aims at quantifying the muscle and joint forces during human gait under water to provide quantitative parameters that will help with the better prescription of hydrotherapy and hydrogym.

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Email: bel@if.usp.br

Albert Wang, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012

My current project involves using shear wave imaging along with biomechanical tensile testing to measure tendon elasticity in tendon tear and tendinopathy.

Lindy Couwenhoven, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

I currently work with the UW Athletic Sports Performance Lab to identify trends in biomechanical data to help predict sports injury and projected recovery timelines.

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Email: couwenhoven@wisc.edu

Chuck Donaldson, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014

My research interests are in the biomechanics of running/athletic injuries and developing tests to prevent them. I am working with the ElliptiGO right now, but moving towards more research in the athletic department in the future.

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Post Graduation: Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance Engineer at Propeller Health (Madison, WI)

Kyle Jamar, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014

My research interest is in the area of biomechanics as it applies to rehabilitation and orthopedics. I am currently working with Jarred Kaiser to integrate the Wii balance board and Xbox kinect for teaching and rehabilitation purposes.

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Post Graduation: Mechanical Engineer at Plexus Corp. (Appleton, WI)

Arezu Monawer, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014

I am interested in biomechanics, and am currently working on investigating knee kinematics using dynamic MRI and a loading device.

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Post Graduation: Employed at Epic Systems (Verona, WI)

Kwang Won Choi, PhD
UWNMBL Alumnus
PhD Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014
MS Mechanical Eng., Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, 2010
BS Mechanical Eng., Hanyang University, S. Korea, 2007

I am interested in applying Finite Element Analysis and CAD techniques to the field of musculoskeletal biomechanics and orthopedics.

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Post Graduation: Mechanical Engineer at Samsung (South Korea)

John Scerpella, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
Undergraduate Student in Neurobiology

Research Focus: Bone characteristics as measured by DXA. I also am using femur length as a surrogate for height.

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Email: jscerpella@wisc.edu

Laura Chernak Slane, PhD
UWNMBL Alumna
PhD Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2014
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2011
BS Mechanical Engineering, Bucknell University, 2009

The goal of my research is to quantify muscle-tendon mechanics to provide insight into Achilles tendon injuries and the effects of aging. I am interested in leveraging the capabilities of quantitative ultrasound techniques, such as shear wave elastography, to measure high resolution non-uniform mechanics. My research also involves the development of a custom elastography approach capable of tracking high resolution motion and strains under dynamic loading conditions.

Primary Project: Quantitative Ultrasound

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Post-Graduation: Postdoctoral fellow, KU-Leuven/UZ Pellenberg, Belgium

Elizabeth Chumanov, PhD, DPT
UWNMBL Alumna
Doctor of Physical Therapy, UW-Madison, 2012
PhD Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison
BS Chemical Engineering and Biology, Iowa State Univ.
Research Thesis: Dynamic Simulation of Musculotendon Mechanics during High Speed Running

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Post Graduation: Physical Therapist, UW Sports Rehabilitation

Michael Scherer, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013

I am interested in biomechanics and othopedics specifically as they apply to reconstruction surgeries. My current project involves using dynamic MRI to accurately measure knee kinematics in order to create a tangible and functional knee model.

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Post Graduation: Product Development Engineer at Gauthier Biomedical

Eric Simpraphone
UWNMBL Alumnus
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

Research Focus: Improving calibration and data collection methods via laser modification of equipment

Karina Vargas, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
BS Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern University, 2012

My research interests are biomechanics, neuromuscular control. I am currently working with Joe Towles on validating models for the thumb. We are looking to develop a new 3D musculoskeletal thumb model that characterizes endpoint forces during lateral and opposition pinch tasks.

Ada Weiss, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
Undergraduate Student in Athletic Training

Research Focus: Assessing readiness and fatigue in football players based on weekly performance measures.

Tanner Marshall, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012

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Post Graduation: Technical Services Engineer at Biotronik

Taylor Powers, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012

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Post Graduation: Mechanical Engineer at ThermoFisher Scientific (Madison, WI)

Daniel Volk, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013

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Post Graduation: Hardware/Software Engineer at Oracle

Emily Headley, BS
UWNMBL Alumna

BS Biology, UW-Madison, 2012

Paul Milbaier, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, University of Stuttgart, 2012
BS Mechanical Engineering, University of Stuttgart, 2011

Grace Trabulsi, BA
UWNMBL Alumna
BA Sports and Exercise Science, Messiah College, 2004

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Post Graduation: Physical Therapy Intern (Madison, WI)

David Bunger, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012
BS Mechanical Engineering, Tufts University, 2008

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Post Graduation: Design Engineer at Prairie Technologies (Middleton, WI)

Joseph Collins, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomechanics, UW-Milwaukee, 2009
BS Kinesiology, Univ. of Massachusetts-Amherst, 2007

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Post Graduation: Physical Therapy Intern (Madison, WI)

Anne Schmitz, PhD
UWNMBL Alumna
PhD Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2008
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2006

I am interested in developing computer models of the knee to simulate ACL reconstruction surgery.

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Post Graduation: Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Gannon University (Erie, PA)

Kayt Frisch, PhD
UWNMBL Alumna
PhD Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2011
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
BS Mechanical Engineering, Calvin College, 2006

My research interests are in using non-invasive imaging techniques to quantify soft tissue mechanics. My thesis focuses on using ultrasound to quantify the mechanical changes that occur in tendons after the tendon has be torn.

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Post Graduation: Professor of Physics and Mechanical Engineering at Dordt College (Sioux Center, IA).

Jonathan Mantes, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2011
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2010

I am interested in biomechanics, specifically in areas of orthopedics and rehabilitation. I am currently working with Jarred Kaiser to investigate the kinematics of ACL-reconstructed knees using dynamic MRI imaging.

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Post Graduation: Mechanical Systems Design Engineer at the Brady Corporation (Milwaukee, WI)

Rob Bradford, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2011
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2008

I'm interested in applying state-of-the art MRI techniques to the field of biomechanics. In particular, we are working towards using a novel MRI sequence created by UW scientists to study the connection between ACL reconstruction and the early development of osteoarthritis. We hope that someday, this research may help guide surgical techniques and improve clinical outcomes for patients.

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Post Graduation: Mechanical Engineer at GE Healthcare in PET Imaging (Waukesha, WI).

Michael Ryan, PhD, CPed
UWNMBL Alumnus
PhD Experimental Med., Univ. of British Columbia, 2009
MS Human Kinetics, Univ.of British Columbia, 2002
BHK Exercise Science, Univ. of British Columbia, 1994

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Post UWNMBL: Post-doctoral Fellow at Griffith University (Brisbane, Australia)

Chelsey Erickson, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Mechanical Eng., UW-Madison, 2010
BS Mechanical Eng., Milwaukee School of Eng., 2009

My research interests focus on biomechanics. I am particularly interested in biomechanics as it relates to human adaptation to microgravity (astronauts) as well as sports injuries and rehabilitation. I am currently working with the UW Athletics program on Star Excursion Balance Testing.

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Post Graduation: Engineer in the Quality-Regulatory Leadership Program at GE Healthcare (Waukesha, WI)

Nick Harrison, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2010

Nathan Kleinhans, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2010
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2008

I am interested in the biomechanics of the gait cycle. I am currently working with Laura Chernak and David Bunger to design a device to actively load the Achilles tendon for ultrasonic imaging.

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Post Graduation: Employed in Technical Services at EPIC Systems (Verona, WI)

Amy Lenz, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Biomedical Engineering, UDel, 2012
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2010

Research Thesis: Dynamic Hamstring Function during Gait

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Email: allenz@uwalumni.com
Post Graduation: Gait Lab Engineer at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital (Grand Rapids, MI)

Gina Stuessy, MS
UWNMBL Alumna

Research Topic: Visualization of Three-dimensional Knee Mechanics

Mary Zhang
UWNMBL Alumna
Biomedical Engineering Student, MIT

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Email: maryzhang@gmail.com

Lisa Block, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
BS Kinesiology, UW-Madison

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Email: lmblock@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Plastic Surgery Resident at UW-Madison (Madison, WI)

Judy Dewane, DSc
UWNMBL Alumna
DSc Neurologic Physical Therapy, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
MHS Neurologic Physical Therapy, Univ. of Indianapolis
BS Physical Therapy, Marquette University

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Email: dewane@ortho.wisc.edu

Max Michalski, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

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Email: michalski@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Medical Student at UW-Madison (Madison, WI)

Selena Bobula, DPT
UWNMBL Alumna
DPT Physical Therapy, UW-Madison
BS Physics and Italian, The Ohio State University

Research Focus: Variability of Stride Duration in Older Adults under Dual-task Conditions

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Email: bobula@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Physical Therapist at Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Center (Chinle, AZ)

Daniel Cobian, DPT
UWNMBL Alumnus
DPT Physical Therapy, UW-Madison
BS Biology and Kinesiology, UW-Madison

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Email: dgcobian@wisc.edu

Kyle Gleason, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
BS Mechanical Engineering, Milwaukee School of Eng.

Research Thesis: Upper Body Power Generation during Bicycle Pedaling

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Email: kpgleason@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Employed at EPIC Systems (Verona, WI)

Christopher Westphal, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2007

Research Thesis: Load Dependent Variations in Knee Kinematics Measured with Dynamic MRI

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Email: cjwestphal@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Pursuing PhD in Mechanical Engineering at UW-Madison (Madison, WI)

Antonio Hernandez, PhD
UWNMBL Alumnus
PhD Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
MS Mechanical Engineering, UC Berkeley, 1993
BS Mechanical Engineering, MIT, 1991

Research Thesis: In vivo Dynamic Function of Lower Extremity Human Biarticular Muscles as Measured by Novel Electrical Stimulation Protocols Juxtaposed to Computational Perturbation Studies

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Email: ahernand@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Medical Student at UW-Madison (Madison, WI)

Amy Silder, PhD
UWNMBL Alumna
PhD Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2005
BS Biosystems Engineering, Michigan State Univ., 2003

Research Thesis: Effects of Prior Hamstring Injury on Morphology, Mechanics and Function

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Email: silder@stanford.edu
Post Graduation: Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship in Bioengineering at Stanford University (San Francisco, CA)

Martin Schultze, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2008
Engineering Cybernetics, Universitat Stuttgart

Research Thesis: Central Pattern Generators as a Biologically Inspired Neural Control Mechanism for Bicycle

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Email: mschultze@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Pursuing PhD at University of Hamburg (Hamburg, Germany)

Andrew Sterling, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2008
BS Mechanical Engineering, Univ. of Colorado-Boulder, 2005

Research Thesis: Cervical Spine Motion and the Biomechanical Influence of Vertebral Fusion

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Email: asterling82@gmail.com
Post Graduation: Thermal analysis engineer with Lockheed Martin & Boeing (Denver, CO)

Joe Farron, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2007
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison

Research Thesis: Measurement of Tendon Strain During Muscle Twitch Contractions Using Ultrasound

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Email: jwfarron@gmail.com
Post Graduation: Engineer at Boeing Corporation (Seattle, WA)

Jackson Potter, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus, Co-Advised with Prof. Heidi Ploeg
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2007
BS General Engineering, University of Illinois

Research Thesis: Bicycle Seat Pressure Distribution during Seated Cycling, and the Effects of Gender, Power and Hand

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Email: jjpotter82@gmail.com
Post Graduation: Pursuing PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech University (Atlanta, GA)

Christine Weisshaar, MS
UWNMBL Alumna, Co-Advised with Prof. Heidi Ploeg
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

Research Focus: Effect of Saddle Design on Rider Comfort

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Email: clweisshaar@gmail.com
Post Graduation: Research Engineer at the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA)

Ben Whittington, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2007
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison

Research Thesis: Utilization of Lower Extremity Stiffness during Human Walking

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Email: whittingtonben@gmail.com
Post Graduation: Envoy Medical Corporation (St. Paul, MN)

Yomary Munoz, BS
UWNMBL Visiting Undergraduate Researcher
University of Puerto Rico, Mayagiiez Campus

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Email: munoz_yomary@yahoo.com

Julie Sauer, MS
UWNMBL Alumna, Co-Advised with Prof. Heidi Ploeg
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

Research Focus: Pelvic Motion during Seated Pedaling

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Email: jlsauer@gmail.com
Post Graduation: Engineer with EPIC Industries (Verona, WI)

David Remy, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2006
Engineering Cybernetics, Universitat Stuttgart

Research Thesis: Integration of an Adaptive Ground Contact Model Into the Dynamic Simulation of Gait

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Email: christian.remy@mavt.ethz.ch
Post Graduation: Pursuing PhD at ETH (Zurich, Switzerland)

Gabe Donatell, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2004
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2003

Research Focus: Abnormal Muscle Activation Patterns with Patello-femoral Pain

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Email: gdonatel@wlgore.com
Post Graduation: Quality engineer in prosthetic vasculature products for W.L. Gore and Associates (Flagstaff, AZ)

Dina Hoerth, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2005
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2004

Research Focus: Kinematic Analysis of Human Sprinting

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Email: dmhoerth@uwalumni.com

Tim Rand, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2006
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

Research Focus: Synergistic Muscle Control of Human Walking

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Email: tdrand@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Clinical Research Assistant Aerotek Scientific (Raleigh,NC)

Peter V. Ehrhart, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Computer Science and Physics, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 2003

Adam Graf. MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2004
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2003

Research Focus: Age and Functional Effects on Gait Mechanics

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Email: angraf@uwalumni.com
Post Graduation: Senior Motion Analysis Laboratory Engineer at Shriners Hospital for Children, Chicago, IL