Physiology for Engineers: On Earth and in Space

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Applying engineering fundamentals to physiology allows for new insights into normal and abnormal (i.e., pathophysiological) biological function. Using a systems-based approach, we will quantitatively explore the biological, chemical, electrical, and mechanical foundations of human physiology. We will examine how engineering approaches - both empirical and theoretical - can be used to understand healthy and diseased organ systems, including but not limited to the nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. As a running application theme, we will investigate the physiological changes humans undergo during space travel, and we will design hypothetical bioengineering-based experiments to investigate these alterations in microgravity.