The National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) www.nibib.nih.gov within NIH is working to integrate the physical and engineering sciences with the life sciences and research. One of the key goals is to develop new biologics, processes, devices, and additional technologies that can be used for early disease detection to assess the health of patients.
NIBIB is involved in a number of research areas that support studies, but some research areas emphasize the development of devices to improve the detection, treatment, and prevention of disease.
Researchers are developing technologies in connected health which is considered a high priority research area at NIBIB. The focus is on integrating wireless technologies with human and biological interfaces. This program includes developing software and hardware for telehealth and mobile health studies.
Another research area includes developing point-of-care technologies or devices in order to develop rapid in-vitro diagnostic technologies and monitoring platforms capable of providing real-time medical evaluations to analyze disease status or the patient’s condition at the point-of-care.
NIBIB researchers are also working on next generation engineering technology to incorporate implantable and assistive medical devices. Technologies for assistive medical devices can include medical robotics for rehabilitation, surgery, prevention health and therapy, next generation prosthetics, and Brain Computer Interface (BCI) technology.
In addition, NIBIB is looking to further develop next generation tools, technologies, and systems to improve the outcomes of surgical interventions. Examples include medical simulators for surgical training, develop surgical robotics, and also develop devices to use for minimally invasive surgeries.
For more information email Todd Merchak at todd.merchak@nih.gov.