The purpose of the Biomedical Mechanical Engineering program is to graduate engineers proficient in the areas of biomedical science related to mechanical engineering. These engineers specialize in areas that include the following: design of artificial hearts, implants, prostheses, and other medical devices, development and selection of bio-compatible metallic and non metallic materials for implants and medical equipment, robotics for medical applications and biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering.
This program is similar in structure to the mechanical engineering program but it includes courses in the biomedical field that replace a quarter of the conventional program.
This program’s broad scope gives its graduates a wide range of career options, not only in the biomedical field but also in conventional mechanical engineering. Biomedical systems are among the most complex mechanical systems; therefore, a strong and comprehensive education in standard mechanical engineering principles is provided, with emphasis on their application to biomedical systems.
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A preview of your studies
Reeham Hammouda
Fourth year, Biomedical Mechanical Engineering, CO-OP
As a child, I loved to take things apart and attempt to reassemble them. This childhood passion drove me to tackle greater challenges, making engineering the perfect fit for me. During my degree, I worked and volunteered at schools, shelters, hospitals and community centres, as I believe that becoming a great engineer starts with striving to become a great citizen.
I think that being honourable, righteous, compassionate and ready to lend a helping hand builds a strong foundation for our society. Trying to make a difference through using the Richard L’Abbé Makerspace and participating in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), I merged my passion for social awareness and my engineering skills by designing a low cost, 3D-printed four-bar linkage knee prosthetic for developing countries. This experience allowed me to present my project at the Ontario Biomechanics Conference, where I received positive feedback, discovered new opportunities and broadened my network. It also sparked my interest in higher education and my love for orthopedic and rehabilitation applications, which geared my educational path towards this newfound interest.
I am currently designing a surrogate lower limb to evaluate AFO (ankle foot orthosis) performance at the Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre, and I continue to learn every day about the fascinating human body and phenomenal technological advancements in the biomedical field. These opportunities, which were facilitated through the University of Ottawa, has enabled me to contribute as a community member in my own unique way.
