News & Stories
Explore the latest news, stories, and groundbreaking research happening at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering. Stay updated on innovative projects, impactful discoveries, and the achievements of our talented students, faculty, and alumni shaping the future of biomedical science and engineering.
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Engineering cells for space: Lucy Ma’s journey from grad school to the stars
Lucy Ma shares her path from undergrad to PhD, and how her curiosity about biology and space led her to research gene therapies for astronauts. She talks about her early experiences with the Canadian Space Agency, her current work engineering stem cells, and the challenges of advocating for innovation in space health.
2025 Orientation + BBQ
We held an orientation today for incoming graduate students in the MEng, MASc, and PhD programs, followed by our annual BBQ to foster connections between new and current students. Looking forward to a productive and engaging academic year.
Droplet microfluidics and microbiome research at the Lan lab
At the Lan Lab, led by Professor Freeman Lan, tiny droplets are unlocking big breakthroughs. Using ultrahigh-throughput droplet microfluidics, the team can run millions of experiments in parallel, transforming how we study cells, microbes, and the human microbiome.
Dr. Noor Abu Jarad awarded a Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship
Dr. Noor Abu Jarad awarded a Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship Dr. Noor Abu Jarad has been awarded a Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship, one of Canada’s most prestigious postdoctoral awards. The Banting Postdoctoral […]
How boutIQ is improving cell culture media with AI
boutIQ Solutions, a Toronto-based biotech startup, is transforming cell therapy by using AI and machine learning to optimize cell culture media formulations. Their innovative approach tackles one of regenerative medicine’s toughest challenges: keeping lab-grown cells healthy, functional, and clinically ready.
Professor Milica Radisic elected fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences
Professor Milica Radisic (BME, ChemE) has been elected a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS), one of Canada’s three national academies. The CAHS leverages the expertise of Canada’s leading health sciences researchers to evaluate our most urgent and complex health challenges and recommend solutions. To be named a CAHS Fellow is considered one of the highest distinctions for academics in the health sciences in Canada.
Shaping the future of robotics surgery | Professor Lueder Kahrs research highlight
At the University of Toronto Mississauga, Professor Lueder Kahrs and his team are pioneering the intersection of robotics, computer vision, and augmented reality to transform surgery. From teaching robots to assist in real-time surgical tasks to developing augmented reality tools for facial reconstruction, the Medical Computer Vision and Robotics Lab is building technology that empowers surgeons and improves patient outcomes.
Nanoparticles, internships, and a mission to cure cancer | Student Spotlight
Meet Alyssa Apilan, a MASc student in Professor Gang Zheng’s lab, where she’s pioneering nanoparticle formulations to combat liver cancer. Here, Alyssa shares her academic journey and how international internships in Italy and Singapore helped her grow both professionally and personally.
AI tool improves accuracy and efficiency in microscopy image analysis
AI tool improves accuracy and efficiency in microscopy image analysis Professor Rodrigo Fernandez-Gonzalez (pictured middle) at the University of Toronto’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME) have developed a new artificial […]
iBEAM 2025: Biomedical Engineering in Action
Join us for a glimpse into iBEAM 2025, a hands-on biomedical engineering workshop hosted by the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME) at the University of Toronto in partnership with the U of T Enrichment Academy. Over two days, students explored nanotechnology, biomaterials, and tissue engineering through interactive lab activities led by Drs. Penney Gilbert and Lindsey Fiddes. From gold nanoparticles to engineered pancreas tissue, this initiative empowers high school students from underrepresented communities to discover the possibilities of science and innovation.
Revolutionizing Heart Health: Inside the Franklin Lab at U of T
Discover how the Franklin Research Lab at the University of Toronto is transforming cardiac care through cutting-edge bioelectronic and biophotonic devices. Led by Professor Daniel Franklin, the lab is developing wearable technologies, wireless implants, and smart materials that go beyond traditional health metrics, as they bring innovative solutions from the lab to real patients.
Swallowable sensor offers simpler way to monitor gut inflammation
Swallowable sensor offers simpler way to monitor gut inflammation Researchers at the University of Toronto, Mass General Brigham and Harvard Medical School have developed a swallowable, low-cost device that changes colour […]
Four BME Core Faculty Members Receive CIHR Project Grant Funding
Four BME core faculty members receive CIHR Project Grant funding Four core faculty members from the University of Toronto’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME) have received funding from the Canadian […]
Replacing metal plates with surgical adhesive | The future of fracture repair
Cohesys is a Toronto-based medical device startup revolutionizing how surgeons treat facial fractures. Spun out of research at the University of Toronto’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Cohesys was founded by alumni Alex Jucan and Michael Floros. Their flagship innovation, BoneTape, is a flexible surgical adhesive designed to replace traditional metal plates and screws in craniomaxillofacial procedures.
U of T Professor Alex Mihailidis appointed Knight of the Ordre des Palmes académiques
U of T Professor Alex Mihailidis appointed Knight of the Ordre des Palmes académiques Professor Alex Mihailidis has been named a Knight (Chevalier) of the Ordre des Palmes académiques by […]
24 BME students offered Ontario Graduate Scholarships
24 BME graduate students receive Ontario Graduate Scholarships The OGS is a merit-based scholarship that supports graduate students pursuing excellence in academic research across disciplines at publicly funded universities in […]
Four BME trainees recognized with NSERC awards for doctoral and postdoctoral research
Four BME trainees recognized with NSERC awards for doctoral and postdoctoral research Four students and postdoctoral fellows from the University of Toronto’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME) have been awarded […]
Nine BME affiliated Professors awarded NSERC Discovery Grants
The Discovery Grant program supports researchers exploring new frontiers to address critical challenges, including environmental protection, food security, and sustainable construction in cold climates. It seeks to sustain a diverse and high-quality research ecosystem in the natural sciences and engineering at Canadian universities, foster excellence, and create an engaging environment for research training.
Professor Elaine Biddiss awarded Discovery Horizons Grant for interdisciplinary health technology research
Professor Elaine Biddiss awarded Discovery Horizons Grant for interdisciplinary health technology research Dr. Elaine Biddiss, associate professor at the University of Toronto’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering and senior scientist at […]
BME Research in Action – Paul Santerre Lab
Discover how Professor Paul Santerre and his team at the University of Toronto are using smart biomaterials to tackle some of today’s most pressing health challenges: from cardiovascular disease and dental repair to bone healing and tissue regeneration.
Five BME faculty members receive promotions
Five BME faculty members receive promotions Five faculty members affiliated with the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME) at the University of Toronto were promoted, effective July 1, 2025 (From top […]
Dr. Tom Chau appointed Officer of the Order of Canada
Dr. Tom Chau, a distinguished senior scientist at the Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and professor at the University of Toronto’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada — one of the country’s highest civilian honours.
BME Research in Action – Milica Radisic Lab
From organ-on-a-chip platforms that mimic the heart, kidneys, and vasculature to advanced biomaterials that promote healing and fight inflammation, the Radisic Lab is driving breakthroughs at the intersection of engineering and human health. Their innovations are helping researchers better understand disease, accelerate drug development, and bring regenerative therapies closer to clinical use.
U of T Engineering researchers and startup boutIQ solutions partner to advance heart repair therapies
U of T Engineering researchers and startup boutIQ solutions partner to advance heart repair therapies Professors Craig Simmons and Julie Audet, in collaboration with boutIQ solutions Inc., a University of […]