The future is bright for Fairfield students interested in biomedical engineering. In addition to the program’s alignment with the University’s Jesuit mission of developing women and men for others, successful biomedical engineers graduate with strong skills in analytical thinking, creativity, communication, working collaboratively, math, and problem-solving. “The study of biomedical engineering spans the academic disciplines of physiology, biology, biochemistry, informatics, data science, biomechanics, biomaterials, and engineering design, among others,” said School of Engineering Dean Andres Carrano, PhD. “Biomedical engineers apply a diverse skillset to create solutions to continuing worldwide health issues, accelerate efficiency, and expand options as to how patients are treated. Often these paths result in the lowering of the cost of patient care while improving the quality of life.”

Located in the middle of a thriving life-science corridor in the Northeast, the University is well-positioned for students interested in securing internships — and full-time employment after graduation — at a variety of biomedical companies.

With enrollment in Fairfield’s biomedical engineering program rapidly growing, the School of Engineering is hiring new faculty members, expanding course offerings, increasing research opportunities, and planning for a new innovation space.

The research interests of new faculty members range from molecular modeling and bioelectronics, to analysis of blood flow in the cortex of the brain, to expertise in biomedical signal processing and biomaterials. The expanded focus of curriculum offerings includes medical devices, biosensors, imaging, materials, and computational bioengineering. “The field is rapidly changing and we are adding new content and projects that will keep students up-to-date with the latest developments,” noted Susan Freudzon, PhD, biomedical engineering professor of the practice.

The School is in the process of developing a 4+1 bachelor- to-master’s program in biomedical engineering, which will allow students to pursue a master’s degree in an accelerated format. Students enrolled in the 4+1 program will have multiple opportunities to become involved with faculty research and projects to broaden their learning experiences.

Opening in spring 2022, a new state-of-the-art innovation space for biomedical engineering students will feature a creative studio, a maker space, and research labs where faculty and students will perform research and pursue innovations together. Additionally, the department has acquired new cutting-edge research equipment including two bioprinters, an electrospinning device that generates nano-sized fibers, and advanced microscopes.

For students interested in an international experience, the University’s study abroad program, Global Fairfield, boasts a biomedical engineering study track at the National University of Ireland in Galway, Ireland. The program features learning opportunities that optimize the international setting and bring an elevated global understanding to the undergraduate experience. Global Fairfield also offers a 4+1 biomedical engineering program that allows students to complete their master’s degree in Galway.

“Our partnership with the National University of Ireland is very strategic because it is located in an important biomedical hub in Europe,” said Dr. Carrano.