University of Connecticut | |
Biomolecular Science & Engineering Biomaterials & Bioengineering
We define Biomolecular Science & Engineering to include the science of biomaterials and the technology of how to use them - biological engineering or simply bioengineering. "A biomaterial is any material, natural or man-made, that comprises whole or part of a living structure or biomedical device which performs, auguments, or replaces a natural function" or more succinctly "a biomaterial is a nonviable material used in medical device, intended to interact with a biological systems". If you are interested in medical applications, you are interested in biomaterials. Inert heart valves, bioactive coatings on hip implants. dental replacements, all sorts of surgery procedures, and the future of drug delivery (nano-pharmaceuticals), but we also include natural materials and all sorts of grafts for bone and tissue. (Adapted from Wiki definitions.) Bioengineering is an interdisciplinary program covering topics including but not limited to, biochemical engineering, biomolecular engineering, metabolic engineering, and biomedical engineering. The discipline leverages the cross-over between the two programs in our Department and brings together our Faculty who are working in these areas. What makes our approach special is that the bio- specialization is built upon the foundation of MS&E and Chemical Engineering, leading to an accredited undergraduate degree, either in MS&E or in Chemical Engineering upon graduation. Graduates will be equally at home at the Materials Research Society and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. Our graduates can take the core courses in either program and then mix and match the technical electives. A select group of seminars by internationally recognized experts introduces our students to the current state of research. An important component of the program is that the Faculty work on both the main campus in Storrs and at the UConn Health Center in Farmington. Students are encouraged to spend time at both locations and to have a committee that reflects this exciting link between the two UConn campuses. Undergraduates will know that the MS&E degree program is the only undergraduate materials engineering degree program offered by a public university in New England (with important financial implications). Chemical Engineers will know that the highest average starting salaries go to graduates with an accredited Chem. E. degree.
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