Ready Steady Learn
Dr Bruce MacDonald | Technologies for Health research
MP3, 7m40s, 7MB, first broadcast 20 July 2010
Technologies for Health is one of four research themes in the Faculty of Engineering. Bruce is the theme leader, as well as the head of the Robotics Research Lab.
The research theme of Technologies for Health brings together a number of projects in the Faculty of Engineering, and across the University. It is research focussed on developing practical technologies for the prevention, treatment and management of illness, and the preservation of mental and physical wellbeing.
The Faculty of Engineering has considerable expertise in this area and a number of projects underway, including robotic assistants to help care for older people (which Bruce leads); robotic devices for rehabilitation; implantable medical devices to manage illness; and new techniques to study bone disease.
Research into Technologies in Healthcare is of great importance. New Zealand’s expertise in medical technology has the potential both to improve the quality of life and to provide economic growth for an export market in medical technologies.
The research is in this area is helping to addresses some important questions, such as: How might technology help the growing older population here and around the globe? What new technologies could help clinicians create new treatments, improve healthcare services, and ease the burden on healthcare systems? How can new technology help people to proactively manage their health needs?
A public lecture and showcase of new technologies in healthcare is being held this Thursday 22 July 2010, 6-7pm (showcase 5 to 6pm and 7 to 8pm), at the Faculty of Engineering. Dr Jonathan Lasch, from the Alfred E Mann Institute (AMI) in the US is the guest speaker.
