Fundamental principles of biology and material science, along with latest topics in biomaterials research. Topics include cell biology, wound healing, host response to foreign materials, polymers, hydrogels, diffusion and methods of material characterization. Specific medical applications of biomaterials such as orthopedic and dental implants, heart valves, artificial blood vessels, cochlear and ophthalmic implants and tissue engineering. Laboratory. Students are expected to have some background in chemistry, mathematics, and high school biology.