Laboratory of Biomechanical Design
As of October 11, 2021
Basic information
Division
Human Mechanical Systems and Design
* Please go to Courses to see the list of subjects offered by the division.
Faculty members accepting applicants
TODOH Masahiro (Prof.), YAMADA Satoshi (Assist. Prof.)
About the laboratory
Description
Our research is focused on the tissue mechanics, musculo-skeletal systems, biomaterials, and assistive devices. Our students are trained in theoretical and experimental mechanics, micro-nano structure analyses, and experiments for biological samples. Our unique features are: (a) welcome to student's own ideas and preferences ; (b) practical experiments; and (c) international collaboration.
Organization of research
First year Master's students split their time and effort evenly between coursework and research. Students acquire fundamental background through coursework and research review.
We expect all students to acquire basic experimental techniques. Fresh students participate in laboratory training held in May-June. Students who have completed the training participate in various experimental activities.
We also hold a weekly meeting for all members, to exchange important updates and research presentations. We hold individual meetings for specific research group. Faculty members meet students during the meetings and experiments.
Our facilities are universal testing machines, X-ray diffractometers, micro focus X-ray CT system, micro MRI, 3D printers and motion capture system.
Ongoing projects
(1) Characterization of biomimetically remineralized bone via the PILP process
(2) Elastic modulus measurements of a single trabecula in cancellous bone
(3) Mechanical properties of demineralized dentin
(4) Friction measurements of animal knee joint by pendulum tester
(5) Joint angle estimation by body segment acceleration in the activities of daily living
(6) Characteristics of EMG signals during joint motion
(7) Bio-functional coating on SLM manufactured porous scaffolds
(8) Mechanical characterization of clinical human fibrin membrane
(9) Characteristics of calcified marine collagen membrane
Enrolled students' research topics
Research topic is determined according to the student's interests and aspirations, and based on mutual agreement between the student and advisor(s). Students are welcome to suggest their own ideas and preferences. In most cases, the advisor(s) suggests multiple options from which the students choose. Some students work on a continuing project inhereted from a previous student, often in collaboration with a senior student; some students work on a completely new project.
Information for potential applicants
Applicants' background
We are looking for people with good knowledge in theoretical and experimental mechanics, material science or biomedical engineering.
Who should apply?
Students with a strong interest in basics and application of biomechanics.
How to choose a research proposal topic?
It would be preferable if the proposal is related to the laboratory's research profile and the topic of the applicant's interest.
How the research proposal is evaluated?
We evaluate the student proposal based on (1) basic knowledge and understanding the research question, (2) strong motivation to solve the question and finish your Master's or Doctoral course (3) story of the proposal and logical discussion and (4) English.
Plan to accept applicants
| Application type | Enrollment semester | Master’s course | Doctoral course | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEXT Scholarship (Uniform call) | Oct. 2022 | 〇 | 〇 | |
| MEXT Embassy | 〇 | 〇 | ||
| e3 Special Selection | Oct. 2022 | 〇 | 〇 |
How to apply
Please follow the application procedure for the respective application category announced at the e3 web page.
Accepting Research Students
We do not accept Research students. The only exception is students who have secured a scholarship which supports research student period (for example, MEXT via the Embassy nomination, some types of JICA scholarship etc.)
Availability of financial support
Please check the e3 web page for information about the scholarships and other financial support.
Inquiries
If you have any inquiries about the application and admission procedures etc., please contact the e3 office. You can submit your application on-line during the "matching period" irrespective of prior contact with potential supervisor(s).
Achievements
Graduates employment
Internship in Japan under JICA program