Mechanobiology
We explore how mechanical and biophysical cues shape bone and cartilage at both cellular and tissue scales. Using controlled loading models, we study how these signals drive tissue adaptation or degeneration. One key project focuses on osteoarthritis (OA), a major cause of disability, examining how altered mechanical loading, inflammation, and thermal stress affect chondrocyte activity and cartilage matrix remodeling. By integrating in vivo and in vitro stimulation with mechanistic modeling, we aim to uncover therapeutic strategies to slow or even reverse OA progression.
Collaborations:
- Dr. Vincent Stadelmann, Schulthess Klinic
Joint Biomechanics
Our objective is to improve the surgical treatment of the pathologies or trauma of the main human joints: hip, knee, shoulder, and ankle. Our current projects include analyzing and quantifying the effects of surgical technique and implant design on their fixation stability. Patient-specific finite-element models combined with statistical methods and clinical registries are developed to predict the long-term outcomes and to estimate the causes of complications. This integrative approach supports evidence-based advances in arthroplasty and fracture fixation.
Collaborations:
- Prof. Julien Wegrzyn, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, CHUV
- Prof. Pierre-Yves Zambelli, Pediatric Orthopedic Department, CHUV
- Dr. Patrick Goetti, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, CHUV
- Dr. Gilles Udin, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, CHUV
- Dr. Fabio Becce, Department of Radiology, CHUV
- Prof. Philippe Büchler, ARTORG, University of Bern
- Prof. Julien Favre, Director of BioMotion Centre, University of Lausanne
Sports Protective Equipment
We investigate the optimization of protective sports equipment by integrating materials science, experimental testing, and computational modeling. High-fidelity finite-element impact models, combined with machine learning, guide the design of advanced helmets, mouthguards, and other gear. Our goal is to lower the risk of traumatic brain and sports-related injuries while driving the development of digital, athlete-specific solutions.
Collaborations:
- Prof. Martin Broome, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Medicine, CHUV
- Dr. Jean-Yves Fournier, Neurosurgery Department, Hôpital du Valais
- Dr. Pierre-Etienne Bourban, Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites, EPFL
- Dr. Caroline Deck, ICube Laboratory, University of Strasbourg
- Dr. Nicolas Bourdet, ICube Laboratory, University of Strasbourg
- R&D department, Salomon
Valorisation:
- Spin-off: Performance Mouthguard SA
