From mollusk to Matlab: experiential learning for the undergraduate biomedical engineer

Biomedical engineering (BME) is a rapidly growing field, and although it is present in many schools, there is an apparent theme of keeping the biological and engineering aspects separate. However, at the University of Rhode Island, a course exists that brings together accomplished teachers/mentors from both subjects, and as far away as Japan, to assist students in biomedical research. Students acquire microdissection and micro manipulation skills, as well as techniques in data analysis, while attaining an in-depth understanding of the physiological functions of the biological systems. In this specific experiment, the model Lymnaea stagnalis is used. The central nervous system was dissected and removed, neurological signals were recorded, and the results were smoothed using a Butterworth filter. Using this experiment as an example, this paper illustrates how this course combines key concepts from biology, physiology, and electrical engineering, resulting in a unique BME research experience for the undergraduate biomedical engineer.