The Biomechanics Research Laboratory (BRL) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering seeks to gain basic insights into problems that have wide socioeconomic impact, from spine deformities in the young to falls in the elderly. Fundamental research is carried out that seeks to understand how the brain coordinates and controls a myriad of muscles in human locomotion and how aging affects that control.

Projects are designed not only to achieve scientific insights into biomechanical problems but also to carefully train students in state-of-the-art interdisciplinary research procedures. Faculty and students collaborate with scientists from the The University of Michigan Medical Center and from more than ten other University units. In addition, on-going research is being conducted with universities in both the U.S. and internationally.