Abstract:
The ongoing operation and health of human joints relies on the correct mechanical functioning of articular cartilage to allow movement, and on the tensile capacity of the connective tissues (ligaments and tendons). These tissues have extremely complex structures and functional characteristics which rely on chemical, mechanical and biological processes. A comprehensive understanding of the function and malfunction of human joints therefore requires a multidisciplinary approach, including fundamental Mechanical Engineering. This seminar will detail some of the studies conducted in the 3D Imaging Laboratory of the School of Mechanical Engineering, focussing on the development and application of imaging tools to better understand the operation of tissues, the degenerative processes that occur in arthritic joints, and the regenerative processes being facilitated by Tissue Engineering. Throughout the seminar, it will become clear that there is a strong network of collaborators involved in Orthopaedic Bioengineering extending from UWA to include numerous local, national and international partners. After a very long gestation period, this activity appears to have all the required ingredients to emerge as a fledgling centre. One of the challenges presented will be "How do we make the most of our opportunities?" About speaker: Brett Kirk graduated from his Bachelor of Engineering and PhD degrees from the University of Western Australia (UWA) in 1988 and 1992 respectively. He then joined the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Monash University (Clayton) as a lecturer from 1992 to 1995. In 1995 he moved back to UWA and has been a member of academic staff since that date. In 2001 he was appointed deputy Head of School and then Head of School for 2002 to 2005 inclusive. Despite this experience he agreed to be re-appointed to the post for a second term for the years 2006 to 2009, and for part of 2010. Brett Kirk has pursued two parallel lines of research centring around the development and application of novel imaging technologies and analysis techniques for application in both biological and mechanical systems. He established and leads the three-dimensional imaging laboratory in the School of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Western Australia. He has extensive experience in the development of microscopy equipment and very a strong orthopaedic research background, totalling 22 years of experience initially with arthritic degeneration, and more recently with tissue engineering.
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