{"id":38019,"date":"2025-01-21T12:41:55","date_gmt":"2025-01-21T17:41:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hydroassoc.org\/?p=38019"},"modified":"2025-01-29T14:11:46","modified_gmt":"2025-01-29T19:11:46","slug":"next-generation-of-engineers-in-hydrocephalus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hydroassoc.org\/next-generation-of-engineers-in-hydrocephalus\/","title":{"rendered":"Bringing in the Next Generation of Engineers in Hydrocephalus"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\t

As part of its strategic plan, the Hydrocephalus Association’s (HA) research department has expanded its outreach efforts to include engineers, aiming to broaden their network beyond physicians and scientists. The goal is to inspire a new generation of engineers to lead the development of innovative devices and improve outcomes for hydrocephalus patients. HA has embarked on in-person and virtual speaking events targeting graduate and undergraduate engineering programs across the country, including the University of Illinois Chicago<\/a>, the University of Michigan<\/a>, Northwestern University<\/a>, and the University of Washington<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Hydrocephalus is primarily managed through surgical interventions, often involving the placement of shunts to redirect cerebrospinal fluid<\/a>. Unfortunately, shunts frequently fail, leading to medical emergencies and requiring multiple neurosurgeries. HA seeks to drive engineering solutions that could enhance hydrocephalus treatment and the quality of life for those affected by the condition. By engaging with engineering students and faculty, HA hopes to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to address this critical medical challenge<\/p>\n

Dr. Carolyn Harris, a bioengineer and associate professor at Wayne State University<\/a>, and Jennifer Bechard, HA’s Education Manager and a dedicated advocate living with hydrocephalus, actively participated in these outreach events. They were joined by Dr. Monica Chau, Director of Research at HA; Dr. Michael Williams, a neurologist from the University of Washington; Dr. Michael Siegel, an engineer living with hydrocephalus; and Jason Preston, HA Board member and a parent of a child with hydrocephalus. Together, this group brought diverse perspectives to the discussion, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by the hydrocephalus community.<\/p>\n

They also encouraged students to consider engineering design projects focused on advancing hydrocephalus treatments. These projects, often undertaken as part of semester- or year-long design classes, provided an opportunity for students to address specific problems, including fluid flow, disconnection, and pressure regulation within shunts.<\/p>\n

To further stimulate innovation and collaboration, HA has introduced the Engineering in Hydrocephalus Prize<\/a>. See our 2024 recipients here<\/a>. This initiative invites undergraduate and graduate students to propose engineering projects aimed at tackling hydrocephalus challenges. Selected winners will not only gain recognition but also receive an invitation to attend the 2025 HA Research Engineering Workshop.<\/p>\n

By engaging with universities and providing platforms for student involvement, HA is paving the way for the next generation of engineers to contribute to transforming hydrocephalus therapies.<\/p>\n\n\r\n

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