Research Overview
We are interested in the mechanical and biochemical factors that drive maintenance, degeneration, and repair in musculoskeletal and neural tissues.
The Chan Research Group develops and uses multidisciplinary approaches in biomechanics, biology, and biomedical imaging, applying our techniques to cell, tissue, and animal models.
Functional Imaging for Soft Tissue Biomechanics
Mechanobiology of Hyaluronan Synthesis and Interactions
Murine Models of Joint Injury and Repair
Interested in joining the lab?
Undergraduate Research: Undergraduates are expected to commit at least 8 hours a week to research throughout an academic semester. Students should contact Dr. Chan with a brief cover letter, including your specific research interest(s), and a résumé at least a month before the start of term. Openings in the lab depend on research interests, availability of postdoctoral or graduate mentors, and other factors.
Information about undergraduate research in engineering, including funded summer research opportunities, can be found through EURO.
If you are interested in pursuing full-time summer research through the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) contact Dr. Chan with a brief cover letter, including your specific research interest(s), and a résumé at least a month before you apply. Undergraduates who are interested in pursuing academia and becoming faculty may consider applying to the Pathways Scholar program alongside SURF.
NOTE: Graduate students must apply through Purdue for admissions and financial assistance, but it's highly recommended to discuss your potential fit for the lab and open projects before you decide apply. All graduate applicants will be evaluated holistically for admissions among other applicants that admissions cycle, using submitted application materials, letters of recommendation, and interviews. In addition to the often difficult to define "fit" for a project and the lab, considerations often include motivation for graduate school, scientific curiosity, academic and research background and potential, and the diverse skills and experiences that an applicant would bring to the team.