Virtual Reality (VR) Cadaver Lab for Engineering in Medicine

Project Overview

Students in the biomedical sciences at Purdue are aligned toward a common goal of engineering a healthier future for us all, but often lack the knowledge of human anatomy and physiology necessary to maximize the potential of their contribution(s) to medicine. A detailed knowledge of human
anatomy and physiology will become an essential asset of future leaders in biomedical engineering, especially if learned from the perspective of medical students. With support from the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Innovation Hub, and Envision Center at Purdue University, this project team is developing a first-of-its-kind VR Anatomy Lab course at Purdue to provide undergraduate and graduate students with a state-of-the-art learning environment typically reserved for medical students. A more intimate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology in the final years of undergraduate training or the start of graduate training will positively impact student research, confidence in communication across disciplines (especially with clinicians) and will lead to more post-graduate career options.

Project Team

• Matthew Ward, Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering
• Tamara Kinzer-Ursem, Associate Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering
• Darshini Render, Associate Director of Undergraduate Programs, Department of Biomedical Engineering