Scott Mao, PhD 

Phone: 412-624-9602
Email:  sxm2@pitt.edu  

This mechanical engineering laboratory is a modern facility with cutting-edge technology for the study of micromechanics and physics of micrometer and nanometer scaled structures and materials. Directed by Scott X. Mao, PhD, the laboratory contains atomic force microscopes and a nano-indentation testing facility, which provide a capability of measuring load vs. displacement at scales of 10-9 Newton versus nanometer, nano-scaled adhesion, and micro-mechanical behavior for advanced materials including semiconductors and biosystems.

Gelsy Torres, PhD

Our work focuses on identifying factors modulating the motor adaptation of human locomotion and balance control, considering both the plasticity of the brain and the role of biomechanics in movement. To this end, we combine computational tools and psychophysical experiments in humans with and without cortical lesions to investigate: 1) the adaptation of muscle coordination, 2) the functional consequences of changes in muscle activity, and 3) the generalization of newly-acquired motor patterns across different situations. The overreaching goal of our studies is to understand how to stimulate learning mechanisms available to patients with brain lesions to improve their gait during 'real life' situations.

Established 1990 by Savio L-Y. Woo, Ph.D., D.Sc. Hon, D.Eng. Hon
Phone: 412-648-2000
Email: ddecenzo@pitt.edu

The MSRC, which is located at the Center for Bioengineering, offers diverse multidisciplinary research and educational opportunities. Graduate and undergraduate students conduct research toward their degrees in the Department of Bioengineering or any of the traditional engineering disciplines. The MSRC encourages collaboration between clinical and basic scientists in the study of the musculoskeletal system. Education is the primary goal of the MSRC. Students work with bioengineers, orthopaedic surgeons, biochemists, molecular biologists, and gene therapists, exploring innovative orthopaedic applications of basic science principles and technologies. Savio L-Y. Woo, PhD, DSc, DEng is the Founding Director of the MSRC. Bioengineering faculty, Steven Abramowitch, PhD and Patrick McMahon, MD maintain their primary laboratories within MSRC.