McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine
faculty member Michael Sacks, PhD (pictured), the William Kepler Whiteford Professor, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, has been named the 2009 recipient of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Van C. Mow Medal. Dr. Sacks was selected to receive this prestigious honor for his contributions in advancing biomechanics of native and engineered heart valve tissues. The Van C. Mow Medal, established in 2004, is bestowed upon an individual who has demonstrated meritorious contributions to the field of bioengineering through research, education, professional development, leadership in the development of the profession, mentorship to young bioengineers, and with service to the bioengineering community.
“The University of Pittsburgh Department of Bioengineering extends our heartiest congratulations to Professor Sacks on this wonderful award in recognition of his career accomplishments in and leadership to our profession,” said Harvey Borovetz, PhD, Pitt’s Bioengineering Department Chair and Deputy Director, Artificial Organs and Medical Devices at the McGowan Institute.
Dr. Sacks’ overall research focus is quantification and modeling of the structure-mechanical properties of native and engineered soft tissues, with a focus on tissues of the cardiovascular and urological systems. In particular, his laboratory has focused on the mechanical behavior and function of the native aortic and mitral heart valves, including the development of the first constitutive (stress-strain) models for these tissues using a structural approach. His laboratory is also active in the biomechanics of engineered tissues, and in particular understanding the in-vitro and in-vivo remodeling processes from a functional biomechanical perspective.
Formal presentation of the award to Dr. Sacks is scheduled to take place at the 2009 Summer Bioengineering Conference, June 17-21, 2009, at the Squaw Creek Resort, Lake Tahoe, California.
Illustration: McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
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American Society of Mechanical Engineers Van C. Mow Medal
Bio: Dr. Michael Sacks