Allen Liu Research Group

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

How do engineered hydrogels and mechanical devices control cell behavior in tissue models? The lab builds devices such as a cell stretcher to apply controlled mechanical stimuli and a stage-top incubator station for live-cell imaging. Researchers in the group pursue biochemical and materials projects, including work with Protein Chemistry and Engineering trainees. The group sponsors student design projects such as a 3D printer for hydrogel and other prototyping efforts showcased at ME450 design expos. Graduate and undergraduate researchers from Mechanical Engineering and Biomedical Engineering prototype instruments and perform experiments to link mechanical inputs to cellular responses.