Lab Members


Directors
Bryan Heiderscheit 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


Email: heiderscheit@ortho.wisc.edu
Office: 4120 Medical Sciences Center
Darryl Thelen Darryl Thelen, PhD
Professor: Mechanical Engineering
Professor: Biomedical Engineering
Affiliate Professor: Orthopedics and Rehabilitation


Email: dgthelen@wisc.edu
Office: 3053 Mechanical Engineering Building
Co-Director: Bryan Heiderscheit, PT, PhD
Co-Director: Darryl Thelen, PhD

Faculty, Fellows, and Staff
Elizabeth Schmida Elizabeth Schmida, MS
Research Specialist, Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Orthopedics & Rehabilitation
MS, Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2022
BS, Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2019

As a research specialist, my work focuses on human movement and musculoskeletal modeling, particularly as it relates to running and walking biomechanics. My interests include running gait mechanics and their association with running-related injury and wearable technology for human health and performance monitoring.


Email: schmida@wisc.edu
Jack Martin Jack Martin, PhD
Scientist I, Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Orthopedics & Rehabilitation.
PhD Materials Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2019
MS Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2016
BS Chemical & Biological Eng., Colorado State Univ., 2011

My research is focused on using big data approaches to better understand the factors determining individuals’ risk of lower limb injury, and improving our ability to objectively track recovery from those injuries using shear wave tensiometry, which I helped develop in the Neuromuscular Biomechanics Lab.


Email: JMartin@ortho.wisc.edu
Daniel Cobian, PhD, DPT 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.


Email: cobian@pt.wisc.edu
Mikel Stiffler Mikel Joachim, MS, PhD
Program Specialist: Dept. of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation
BA Exercise & Sport Science, UNC-CH, 2012
MS Kinesiology (Biomechanics), UW-Madison, 2015

My research interests broadly include injury prevention and recovery. Specifically, my research primarily focuses on identifying risk factors for injury in high school and collegiate cross country runners and prevention of hamstring strain injuries. This long term goal of these line of research is to develop more accurate screening methods to identify high risk athletes and develop interventions to reduce injury risk.


Email: joachim@ortho.wisc.edu
Jen Sanfilippo 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.


Email: js1@athletics.wisc.edu
2022-Present Elizabeth Schmida, MS
2019-Present Jack Martin, PhD
2016-Present Daniel Cobian, PhD, DPT
2013-Present Mikel Joachim, MS, PhD
2008-Present Jen Sanfilippo, MS, LAT

Current Students
Shreya Kotha Shreya Kotha
M.S. Biomedical Engineering, 2024 B.S. Biomedical Engineering, Osmania University, 2021

My research involves studying the complex mechanical aspects of the fascicle, which is the main subcomponent of tendons in rat tails, through ex-vivo investigations. This work aims to bolster the use of tensiometry. The fascicle is pivotal in the absorption and transmission of forces between muscles and bones, and its mechanical properties are intricately connected to its hierarchical structure.


Email: srkotha@wisc.edu
Kolby Seidl Kolby Seidl
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

I am currently in my senior year of studying Bioinstrumentation and my research is focused on identifying ways to improve and utilize the tensiometer device. I fabricate, test, and refine device versions to improve repeatability, signal propagation, and user comfort when used in lab studies.


Email: kseidl3@wisc.edu
Patrick Buban Patrick Buban
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

My work in the lab involves designing a wearable passive exoskeleton for the lower leg that helps make walking more efficient. As a biomedical engineering major specializing in biomechanics, I am interested in human-centered design and understanding the mechanisms of movement. I hope to continue down the path of wearable technology and help further develop its applications in healthcare.


Email: pbuban@wisc.edu
Sara Sagues Sara Sagues
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

My research includes understanding the biomechanics of why different people have different walking gaits, and how they use muscles in the foot differently.


Email: ssagues@wisc.edu
Sam Kahr Sam Kahr
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering

I am researching whether tensiometry can be used to detect and quantify damage in tendons. I'm working with Shreya to try to figure out how structure and damage at the fascicle scale affects properties of the whole tendon.


Email: kahr2@wisc.edu
Grace Morgan Grace Morgan
Undergraduate Student in Mechanical Engineering

I am currently working on using the shear wave tensiometers to get a more accurate depiction of loading in the Ulnar Collateral Ligament in the elbow.


Email: gmorgan6@wisc.edu
Keith Knurr Keith Knurr, DPT, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation
Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology Excercise and Movement Science, UW - Madison, 2015 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), UW - Madison, 2018 UW-Health Sports Physical Therapy Residency, UW - Madison, 2019 PhD Student in Clinical Investigation, UW - Madison, 2023

My research focuses on better understanding longitudinal changes in running biomechanics following ACL-reconstruction in collegiate athletes and how these changes relate to quadriceps neuromuscular function. This research should help highlight key metrics to assess as part of return-to-sport testing and will guide rehabilitation efforts aimed at improving return to sport rates, reducing ACL re-injuries, and mitigating post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis.


Email: kknurr@wisc.edu
2023-Present Shreya Kotha
2023-Present Kolby Seidl
2023-Present Patrick Buban
2023-Present Sara Sagues
2022-Present Sam Kahr
2022-Present Grace Morgan
2020-Present Keith Knurr, DPT, PhD

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

I develop sensors and advanced algorithms which are designed to make shear wave tensiometry more repeatable, robust, and user-friendly.


Email: dgschmitz@wisc.edu
Lauren Welte Lauren Welte, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Mechanical Engineering
PhD Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Queen's University, 2020
BASc Mechanical Engineering (Biomechanical Option), Queen's University, 2015

The roles and interactions between the soft tissues and small bones of the foot are not well understood. Progression of pathology that affects these structures can substantially reduce a patient's quality of life, but treatments are based on outdated ideas about foot function and generally aim to reduce motion within the foot. My research aims to understand fundamental foot function during locomotion to ultimately help us design treatments that restore foot function instead of restricting it.


Email: lwelte@wisc.edu
Christa Wille, DPT Christa Wille, PT, DPT, PhD
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy
PhD student in Biomedical Engineering
PhD Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2023
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


Email: cmwille@ortho.wisc.edu
Karen Walker Karen Walker
Research Specialist, Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Orthopedics & Rehabilitation
BS Biology, University of Denver, 2022

My research interests are focused on identifying ways in which we can improve and utilize the lab's device: the tensiometer. I ensure devices are uniform and ideate ways in which tensiometers can be more user/subject friendly. I also support grad students and post docs with their research!


Email: kewalker2@wisc.edu
Jonathon Blank 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.


Email: jlblank@wisc.edu
Sara Harper Sara Harper
Graduate Student in Biomedical Engineering
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW - Madison 2020 BS Biomedical & Mechanical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 2014-2018

As a lifelong athlete, I am motivated to understand the mechanics behind sport-specific human motions. Specifically, I am interested in exploring ways to noninvasively measure the musculoskeletal loads incurred during sport-specific, field-based activities. In my current research, I am introducing a portable tensiometry system to study tendon kinetics during unconstrained locomotion. By using such a system to study athletes in game-like scenarios beyond the traditional laboratory setting, we may be able to better inform the development of injury-prevention training programs as well as treatment plans for those afflicted with injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament rupture.


Email: seharper@wisc.edu
alex Reiter Alex Reiter, PhD
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Mechanical Engineering
PhD Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, 2021
MS Mechanical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, 2018
BS Mechanical Engineering, United States Military Academy, 2010

My research interest is rehabilitation following acute or overuse injury in musculoskeletal soft tissues. My current project involves using a wearable system to assess tendon health and function in military service members recovering from tendinopathy.


Email: alex.j.reiter@wisc.edu
William Hayes William Hayes
Undergraduate student in Biomedical Engineering

I am exploring the biomechanical advantages of using a novel set of Nordic walking sticks compared to its traditional counterpart by sending motion-captured data through an inverse dynamics pipeline. The results of this study will provide insight into the joint moment and power reductions possible through modifications of current gait-assisting devices.


Email: whayes2@wisc.edu
Stephanie Cone 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 growth in order to improve clinical outcomes in pediatric patients.


Email: sgcone@udel.edu
Ruby Salbego Ruby Salbego
Undergraduate student in Biomedical Engineering

I am currently working with Stephanie Cone to better understand how the fiber orientation of tendons and ligaments affects the biomechanics of the knee. In the future, we want to combine this work with that of graduate student Lesley Arant, who is creating phantom models of tendons. By changing the fiber orientation in these models, we hope to simulate different scenarios of post-ACL reconstructed tendons and analyze the mechanics.


Email: rsalbego@wisc.edu
Kristen Schill Kristen Schill
Undergraduate student in Biomedical Engineering

My research interests involve applying biomechanical engineering concepts to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Currently, I am working with Ana to study methods used to determine muscle-tendon loads in children with cerebral palsy. Our goal is to improve the way this data is collected to help physicians determine which patients would benefit from corrective orthopedic surgeries.


Email: kschill2@wisc.edu
Kelly Peregrine Kelly Peregrine, BS
Research Intern: Department of Mechanical Engineering
BS Engineering (Biomechanical concentration), Hope College, 2020

As a research intern, I do the background work for our projects like development on the lab's novel Tensiometer device, design work for specific studies, and data processing. I also get to be the guinea pig for some pilot studies in the lab!


Email: kperegrine@wisc.edu
Sarah Gamillo 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.


Email: sgamillo@wisc.edu
Jeremy Portillo 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.


Email: jportillo@wisc.edu
Scott Crawford, PhD, CSCS Scott Crawford, PhD, CSCS
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation
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.


Email: Crawford@ortho.wisc.edu
Ana Ebrahimi, PhD 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).


Email: aebrahimi2@wisc.edu
Christina Harmon Christina Harmon, BS
Graduate Student: Department of Mechanical Engineering
BS Mechanical Engineering, University of Cincinati, 2020

My current research involves ultrasound imaging approaches to tendons, specifically the Achilles tendon. Some of my goals for this involve developing an approach to transform 2D images into a 3D model and developing approaches to identifying the subtendons of the Achilles tendon. I am also interested in understanding the mechanics behind human movement as it pertains to injury prevention and recovery.


Email: cmharmon@wisc.edu
Rachel Lenhart, PhD Rachel Lenhart, MD, PhD
Medical Student
MD, UW-Madison, 2017
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

Currently: Orthopaedic Surgery Resident - Medical College of Wisconsin


Email: rlenhart@wisc.edu
Drew Lukes 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.


Email: DLukes@uwhealth.org
Evan O. Nelson, DPT Evan Nelson, DPT

Assistant Professor: Department of Family Medicine
PhD Clinical Investigation, UW - Madison 2019
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.


Email: nelson3@pt.wisc.edu
Robin Pomeroy, MS Robin Pomeroy, MS
Research Specialist: Department of Mechanical Engineering
MS Kinesiology, UW-Milwaukee, 2012
BA Kinesiology, Purdue University, 2008


Email: rpomeroy@wisc.edu
Eli Dawson Eli Dawson
Graduate Student in Mechanical Engineering
BS Mechanical Engineering, Gonzaga University, 2018
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2020

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.


Email: epdawson@wisc.edu
John Zunker 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.


Email: jzunker@wisc.edu
Colin Smith 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.


Email: crsmith25@wisc.edu
Josh Roth, PhD Josh Roth, PhD
Assistant Professor: Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, UW-Madison
Assistant Professor: Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison
Director: Biomechanical Advances in Medicine (BAM) Lab
PhD Biomedical Engineering, Univ. of California-Davis, 2016
MS Biomedical Engineering, Univ.of California-Davis, 2014
BS Mechanical Engineering, California Polytechnic State University, 2009

Our mission in the Biomechanical Advances in Medicine Lab is to enhance personalized treatments of musculoskeletal injuries and disease. This mission is motivated by need to account for the wide patient-to-patient variability that is not always considered in standard treatments. By translating novel engineering advances into the clinic to optimize the treatment of individual patients, we believe that we can improve patient satisfaction and function following treatment. Improved satisfaction and function should in turn allow patients to maintain an active lifestyle, which is critical to reducing the risk of a multitude of age-related diseases. Check out our website for more details: bamlab@wisc.edu


Email: roth@ortho.wisc.edu
Britta Anderson 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.


Email: banderson26@wisc.edu
Alex Teague 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.


Email: ateague@wisc.edu
Isaac Loegering 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.


Email: iloegering@wisc.edu
Jared Muench 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.


Email: jmuench@wisc.edu
John Kipp John Kipp
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Grace Restle 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.


Email: grestle@wisc.edu
Jenna Blair Jenna Blair
Undergraduate student in Kinesiology
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Alec Hill Alec Hill
MS, Graduate Student in Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Samuel Acuña 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.


Email: saacuna@wisc.edu
Charley Liu Charley Liu
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Michael Vignos 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.


Email: mvignos@wisc.edu
Sarah Denning 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.


Email: scdenning@wisc.edu
Herman Feller Herman Feller
MS Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Maddie Honke Maddie Honke
BS Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Leslie Franczek Leslie Franczek
BS Biomedical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Emily Keuler 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.


Email: emkeuler@wisc.edu
Joseph Towles 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.


Email: towles@engr.wisc.edu
Office: 3035 Mechanical Engineering Building
Moria Bittmann, PhD Moria Bittman, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow: Department of Mechanical Engineering
UWNMBL Alumna

Email: bittmann2@wisc.edu
Scott Brandon, PhD 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.


Email: sbrandon2@wisc.edu
Corey Block Corey Block
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Lauren Erickson Lauren Erickson
Sports Physical Therapy Resident
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
John Scerpella John Scerpella
MPH, graduate student in Public Health
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Madalyn Pechmann 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.


Email: mpechmann@wisc.edu
Alex Ehlers 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.


Email: acehlers@wisc.edu
James Hermus 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.


Email: jhermus@wisc.edu
Nicholas Mauer 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.


Email: njmaurer@wisc.edu
Liga Blyholder Liga Blyholder
Graduate Student in Public Health
UWNMBL Alumna


Email:
Amanda Gallow 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.


Email: agallow@uwhealth.org
Jarred Kaiser 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.


Email: jmkaiser2@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Postdoctoral Fellow, Boston University
Carrie Francis 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
Email: cfrancis2@wisc.edu
Erik Crook, BS 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.


Post Graduation: Mechanical Design Engineer at Milwaukee Electric Tool (Milwaukee, WI)
Brett Parendo, BS 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.


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


Email: skpatel6@wisc.edu
Nicki Ruegsegger 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.


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.


Email: kbiese@wisc.edu
Megan Courtney, BS 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 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.


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.


Email: nskapoor@wisc.edu
Stephanie O'Leary 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


Email: soleary2@wisc.edu
Kristen Rasske 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.


Email: krasske@wisc.edu
Michael Schmidt, MS 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.


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


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.


Post Graduation: Manufacturing Engineer at Boston Scientific
Krista Marshall
UWNMBL Alumna
Undergraduate in Chemical Engineering, UW-Madison

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.


Email: bel@if.usp.br
Albert Wang 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 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.


Email: couwenhoven@wisc.edu
Chuck Donaldson 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.


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


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


Post Graduation: Employed at Epic Systems (Verona, WI)
Kwang Won Choi 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.


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.


Email: jscerpella@wisc.edu
Laura Chernak Slane, PhD 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


Post-Graduation: Postdoctoral fellow, KU-Leuven/UZ Pellenberg, Belgium
Elizabeth S. Chumanov 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

Post Graduation: Physical Therapist, UW Sports Rehabilitation
Michael Scherer 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.


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


Post Graduation: Technical Services Engineer at Biotronik
Taylor Powers Taylor Powers, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012

Post Graduation: Mechanical Engineer at ThermoFisher Scientific (Madison, WI)
Daniel Volk Daniel Volk, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2013

Post Graduation: Hardware/Software Engineer at Oracle
Emily Headley Emily Headley, BS
UWNMBL Alumna

BS Biology, UW-Madison, 2012

Paul Milbaier Paul Milbaier, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, University of Stuttgart, 2012
BS Mechanical Engineering, University of Stuttgart, 2011
Grace Trabulsi Grace Trabulsi, BA
UWNMBL Alumna
BA Sports and Exercise Science, Messiah College, 2004

Post Graduation: Physical Therapy Intern (Madison, WI)
David Bunger David Bunger, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2012
BS Mechanical Engineering, Tufts University, 2008


Post Graduation: Design Engineer at Prairie Technologies (Middleton, WI)
Joseph Collins Joseph Collins, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomechanics, UW-Milwaukee, 2009
BS Kinesiology, Univ. of Massachusetts-Amherst, 2007


Post Graduation: Physical Therapy Intern (Madison, WI)
Anne Schmitz 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.


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


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


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


Post Graduation: Mechanical Engineer at GE Healthcare in PET Imaging (Waukesha, WI).
Michael Ryan, PhD, CPed (C) 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

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.


Post Graduation: Engineer in the Quality-Regulatory Leadership Program at GE Healthcare (Waukesha, WI)
Nick Harrison Nick Harrison, BS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2010
Nathan Kleinhans 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.


Post Graduation: Employed in Technical Services at EPIC Systems (Verona, WI)
Amy Lenz Amy Lenz, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Biomedical Engineering, UDel, 2012
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2010

Research Thesis: Dynamic Hamstring Function during Gait


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 Mary Zhang
UWNMBL Alumna
Biomedical Engineering Student, MIT
Email: maryzhang@gmail.com
Lisa Block Lisa Block, BS
UWNMBL Alumna
BS Kinesiology, UW-Madison
Email: lmblock@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Plastic Surgery Resident at UW-Madison (Madison, WI)
Judy Dewane 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

Email: dewane@ortho.wisc.edu
Max Michalski Max Michalski, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2009
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

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


Email: bobula@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Physical Therapist at Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Center (Chinle, AZ)
Daniel Cobian Daniel Cobian, DPT
UWNMBL Alumnus
DPT Physical Therapy, UW-Madison
BS Biology and Kinesiology, UW-Madison

Email: dgcobian@wisc.edu
Kyle Gleason 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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Email: whittingtonben@gmail.com
Post Graduation: Envoy Medical Corporation (St. Paul, MN)
Yomary Munoz Yomary Munoz, BS
UWNMBL Visiting Undergraduate Researcher
University of Puerto Rico, Mayagiiez Campus
Email: munoz_yomary@yahoo.com
Julie Sauer 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


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


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


Email: gdonatel@wlgore.com
Post Graduation: Quality engineer in prosthetic vasculature products for W.L. Gore and Associates (Flagstaff, AZ)
Dina Hoerth Dina Hoerth, MS
UWNMBL Alumna
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2005
BS Mechanical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2004

Research Focus: Kinematic Analysis of Human Sprinting


Email: dmhoerth@uwalumni.com
Tim Rand Tim Rand, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
MS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison, 2006
BS Biomedical Engineering, UW-Madison

Research Focus: Synergistic Muscle Control of Human Walking


Email: tdrand@wisc.edu
Post Graduation: Clinical Research Assistant Aerotek Scientific (Raleigh,NC)
Peter V. Ehrhart Peter V. Ehrhart, MS
UWNMBL Alumnus
BS Computer Science and Physics, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 2003
Adam Graf 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


Email: angraf@uwalumni.com
Post Graduation: Senior Motion Analysis Laboratory Engineer at Shriners Hospital for Children, Chicago, IL
2017-2023 Dylan Schmitz, PhD
2021-2023 Lauren Welte, PhD
2009-2023 Christa Wille, DPT, PhD
2022-2023 Karen Walker
2018-2023 Jonathon Blank
2018-2023 Sara Harper
2021-2023 Alex Reiter, PhD
2022-2022 William Hayes
2019-2022 Stephanie Cone, PhD
2020-2022 Ruby Salbego
2020-2022 Kristen Schill
2020-2022 Kelly Peregrine, BS
2019-2021 Sarah Gamillo
2019-2021 Jeremy Portillo
2019-2021 Scott Crawford, PhD
2018-2021 Ana Ebrahimi, PhD
2020-2021 Christina Harmon
2010-2020 Rachel Lenhart, MD, PhD
2019-2020 Drew Lukes, DPT
2010-2019 Evan Nelson, DPT
2018-2020 Robin Pomeroy
2018-2020 Eli Dawson
2015-2018 John Zunker
2014-2019 Colin Smith
2016-2019 Josh Roth, PhD
2017-2019 Britta Anderson
2017-2019 Alex Teague, BS
2016-2019 Isaac Loegering, MS
2015-2019 Jared Muench, BS
2018-2019 John Kipp, DPT
2018-2019 Grace Restle, BS
2018-2019 Jenna Blair
2018-2019 Alec Hill, MS
2013-2019 Samuel Acuña, PhD
2017-2018 Charley Liu, DPT
2014-2018 Michael Vignos, PhD
2016-2018 Sarah Denning, MS
2016-2018 Herman Feller, MS
2016-2018 Maddie Honke, BS
2016-2018 Leslie Franczek, BS
2015-2018 Emily Keuler, MS
2012-2018 Joseph Towles, PhD
2016-2017 Moria Bittmann, PhD
2016-2017 Scott Brandon, PhD
2016-2017 Corey Block, DPT
2016-2017 Lauren Erickson, DPT
2016-2017 John Scerpella, MPH
2015-2017 Madalyn Pechmann, BS
2012-2017 Alex Ehlers, BS, MS
2015-2016 James Hermus, BS
2015-2016 Nicholas Mauer, BS
2015-2016 Liga Blyholder, MPH
2012-2016 Amanda Gallow, PT, DPT
2010-2016 Jarred Kaiser, PhD
2009-2016 Carrie Francis, PhD
2014-2015 Erik Crook, BS
2014-2015 Brett Parendo, BS
2014-2015 Shawn Patel, BS
2014-2015 Nicki Ruegsegger, DPT
2013-2015 Kevin Biese, BS
2013-2015 Megan Courtney, BS
2013-2015 Jason Franz, PhD
2013-2015 Neel Kapoor, BS
2013-2015 Stephanie O'Leary, BS
2013-2015 Kristen Rasske, MS
2012-2015 Michael Schmidt, MS
2014-2014 Stephen Young, MS
2013-2014 Erin Jamar
2013-2014 Taylor Lamberty, BS
2013-2014 Krista Marshall
2013-2014 Maria Isabel V. Orselli, MS
2013-2014 Albert Wang, MS
2012-2014 Lindy Couwenhoven, BS
2012-2014 Chuck Donaldson, MS
2012-2014 Kyle Jamar, BS
2012-2014 Arezu Monawer, BS
2011-2014 Kwang Won Choi, PhD
2011-2014 John Scerpella, BS
2009-2014 Laura Chernak Slane, PhD
2004-2014 Liz Chumanov, PhD, DPT
2013-2013 Michael Scherer, BS
2013-2013 Eric Simpraphone
2013-2013 Karina Vargas, BS
2013-2013 Ada Weiss, BS
2012-2013 Tanner Marshall, MS
2012-2013 Taylor Powers, MS
2011-2013 Daniel Volk, BS
2011-2012 Emily Headley, BS
2011-2012 Paul Milbaier, MS
2011-2012 Grace Trabulsi, BA
2010-2012 David Bunger, MS
2010-2012 Joseph Collins, MS
2007-2012 Anne Schmitz, PhD
2010-2011 Kayt Frisch, PhD
2010-2011 Jonathan Mantes, MS
2009-2011 Rob Bradford, MS
2009-2011 Michael Ryan, PhD, CPed
2010-2010 Chelsey Erickson, MS
2010-2010 Nick Harrison, BS
2010-2010 Nathan Kleinhans, MS
2008-2010 Amy Lenz, MS
2008-2010 Gina Stuessy, MS
2009-2009 Mary Zhang, BS
2008-2009 Lisa Block, BS
2008-2009 Judy Dewane, DSc
2008-2009 Max Michalski, MS
2007-2009 Selena Bobula, DPT
2007-2009 Daniel Cobian, DPT
2007-2009 Kyle Gleason, MS
2007-2009 Christopher Westphal, MS
2004-2009 Antonio Hernandez, PhD
2004-2009 Amy Silder, PhD
2006-2008 Martin Schultze, MS
2006-2008 Andrew Sterling, MS
2005-2007 Joe Farron, MS
2005-2007 Jackson Potter, MS
2005-2007 Christine Weisshaar, MS
2005-2007 Ben Whittington, MS
2006-2006 Yomary Munoz, BS
2005-2006 Julie Sauer, MS
2004-2006 David Remy, MS
2004-2005 Gabe Donatell, MS
2003-2005 Dina Hoerth, MS
2003-2005 Tim Rand, MS
2003-2004 Peter V. Ehrhart, MS
2003-2004 Adam Graf, MS
Email to: Darryl Thelen