Research News and 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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Inaugural BESA 3-Minute Thesis Competition Highlights Research Excellence and Communication
The Biomedical Engineering Students Association (BESA) proudly hosted its inaugural 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, celebrating graduate research excellence and the ability to communicate complex scientific ideas to a broad audience. The competition was held over two stages, with the semi-final round taking place on November 14, 2025, followed by the final round on November 28, 2025, bringing together graduate students from across the Department of Biomedical Engineering.
U of T researchers show that fractal geometry can help kidney cells grow in a more mature form
Researchers at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Toronto have developed a new way to grow specialized kidney cells in the lab so that they look and behave more like they do in the body.
Imaging, Microfluidics, and Diabetes Studies | Jonathan Rocheleau Lab
Discover how the Rocheleau lab investigates communication between pancreatic islets, beta cells, and vascular endothelial cells, and how these interactions are altered in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Research approaches include two-photon and confocal microscopy, microfluidics, and live-cell fluorescence imaging to study islet metabolism and tissue function.
Decoding the brain’s hidden rhythms | Berj Bardakjian Lab
Discover how Professor Berj Bardakjian and the Neural Systems Lab at the University of Toronto are uncovering the electrical “alphabet” of the brain. This research explores the hidden rhythms behind how we think and move, with a focus on predicting seizures, improving diagnosis, and advancing machine learning tools for brain disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and depression.
Engineering the future of heart health | Craig Simmons Lab
The Craig Simmons Lab at the University of Toronto investigates how biomechanical forces shape the behavior of cells, driving regeneration, repair, and disease in cardiovascular tissues. By integrating experimental and computational cell mechanics with state-of-the-art molecular biology, the lab uncovers how heart valve calcification develops, how stem cells can be guided to rebuild tissue, and how lab-on-a-chip technologies can accelerate drug testing. Their work is redefining the future of cardiovascular medicine through mechanobiology and engineering innovation.
Building artificial tissues to personalize medicine | Alison McGuigan Lab
In Professor Alison McGuigan’s lab at the University of Toronto, researchers are creating artificial tissues that mimic the complexity of the human body. These engineered tissues help scientists discover new drugs, predict how patients might respond to treatment, and even reveal who might be at higher risk for certain diseases. By combining tools from biomaterials, microfabrication, and synthetic biology, the McGuigan Lab is pioneering a new frontier in regenerative medicine and personalized health care.
Discover how cells heal and build tissues | Rodrigo Fernandez-Gonzalez Lab
Professor Rodrigo Fernandez-Gonzalez and his team study how cells coordinate to shape and repair tissues. Using live imaging and bioengineering tools in fruit fly embryos, they uncover how cells move, communicate, and generate forces to heal wounds and form organs like the heart. Their discoveries could lead to new ways to promote healing and improve regenerative medicine.
Professor Milica Radisic featured in CBC news
Professor Milica Radisic has recently been featured in CBC News for her pioneering work in bioengineering and personalized medicine. With a focus on organ on a chip, these lab-grown models using a patient’s own cells to simulate organ function and tumor response. These devices offer a promising alternative to traditional drug testing methods, potentially improving the accuracy of cancer treatment predictions and reducing reliance on animal testing.
Using nature to guide engineering | Eli Sone Lab
Professor Eli Sone and his team study how nature builds and bonds, from the way bones form to how mussels stick to surfaces, to inspire new technologies for healthcare and the environment. Their research spans bone-regenerating biomaterials, next-generation medical adhesives, and innovative ways to protect ecosystems.
Engineering stem cell therapies for diseases | Michael Garton Lab
Dr. Michael Garton leads a research lab integrating generative AI, protein design, and stem cell biology to develop new gene and cell therapies. His team is engineering stem cell-derived tissues with enhanced survival and therapeutic functions, with the long-term goal of creating curative treatments for thousands of currently untreatable diseases.
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.
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 […]
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 […]
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.
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.
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 […]
Caitlin Maikawa wins 2024 John Charles Polanyi Prize
Assistant Professor Caitlin Maikawa of the University of Toronto’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME) has been awarded the 2024 John Charles Polanyi Prize in Chemistry, recognizing her innovative research into biomaterials that could transform the way chronic diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are monitored and managed.