Bioelectric Engineering

Spanning a range of length scales from the ion-channel to the organ level, with a focus on development of realistic models of cardiac muscle

microscope image of muscle tissue

Research in Bioelectric Engineering at Duke spans a range of length scales from the ion-channel to the organ level. One of the main areas of focus is the development of realistic mathematical and computer models of cardiac muscle.

One of the strengths of Bioelectric Engineering research at Duke is the close relationship between modelers and experimentalists. In vitro experimental work uses micropatterning of cardiac cells and optical mapping of membrane potentials to study the normal and abnormal electrical function of synthetic heart tissues.

Animal experimental work uses high-density electrical mapping to examine the effect of interventional therapies (e.g., catheter ablation and automatic implantable cardioverter/defibrillator implantation) upon electrical activity of the heart. Experimental and simulation studies are being conducted to elucidate the electrophysiological processes underlying arrhythmias and arrhythmia control.

Duke BME researchers also collaborate with faculty from Duke’s Math and Physics Departments in using methods of nonlinear dynamics to characterize and control electrical activity of the heart.

Associated Faculty

Roger C. Barr Profile Photo
Roger C. Barr Profile Photo

Roger C. Barr

Professor Emeritus of Biomedical Engineering

Nenad Bursac, Ph.D. Profile Photo
Nenad Bursac, Ph.D. Profile Photo

Nenad Bursac, Ph.D.

Professor of Biomedical Engineering

Warren M Grill, Ph.D. Profile Photo
Warren M Grill, Ph.D. Profile Photo

Warren M Grill, Ph.D.

James B. Duke Distinguished Professor

Wanda Krassowska Neu Profile Photo
Wanda Krassowska Neu Profile Photo

Wanda Krassowska Neu

Professor Emeritus of Biomedical Engineering

Angel V Peterchev Profile Photo
Angel V Peterchev Profile Photo

Angel V Peterchev

Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

Dr Marc Sommer, Ph.D. Profile Photo
Dr Marc Sommer, Ph.D. Profile Photo

Dr Marc Sommer, Ph.D.

Professor of Biomedical Engineering

Dr Mike Tadross, M.D., Ph.D. Profile Photo
Dr Mike Tadross, M.D., Ph.D. Profile Photo

Dr Mike Tadross, M.D., Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering

Dr Jon Viventi, Ph.D. Profile Photo
Dr Jon Viventi, Ph.D. Profile Photo

Dr Jon Viventi, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering

Patrick D. Wolf Profile Photo
Patrick D. Wolf Profile Photo

Patrick D. Wolf

Associate Professor Emeritus of Biomedical Engineering

Other Research Specialties

Explore additional specialty research areas in Duke BME and throughout the Pratt School of Engineering.