GAANN Fellows will have the opportunity to participate in cutting edge research in some of the following areas.
Biotechnology
The increasing integration of engineering in the health sciences promises a revolution in new technologies that will help save lives. Drexel University's activity in biotechnology builds upon Philadelphia's prominence in medical technology and pharmaceutical strengths. Drexel faculty members are engaged in a variety of topics including novel detection of cholestrol, biomaterials, and biofluid mechanics. Research activities in these areas are expected to grow significantly as a result of the merger between Drexel University and the Medical College of Pennsylvania-Hahnemann University.
Information Technology
The advent of wireless technology and Internet accessibility has transformed our ability to interact in a variety of levels and platforms, including the classroom, the workplace and leisure activities. In the area of information technology, Drexel University faculty is involved in a variety of topics including medical robotics, wireless communication, signal processing, and telecommunications. Drexel University leads a consortium of educational and industrial concerns at the $30M Center for Applied Communications and Information Networking. Drexel is also home to the $7.5M Pegasus Project, which is dedicated to the development of the next generation of Internet.
Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is at the forefront of cutting edge technology, and has received recognition and funding from the federal government agencies. Nanotechnology can be simply defined as the ability to manipulate molecules and atoms to produce engineered products. Imagine developing a nanosensor that can be inserted into the bloodstream to detect and placate plaque buildup; or new techniques to manufacture carbon nanotubes for use in computers and electronic equipment; nanofiber systems that can be used as effective replacements for damaged organs such as kidneys; or tissue engineering with properties that are more amenable to successful transplants.
International Research Programs
Providing international exposure to the Drexel GAANN Fellows is an integral component of our program that addresses the national need and the need to train future academics and scientists. All of the fellows will have the opportunity to participate in international research collaboration in their 2nd or 3rd year of study arranged through the Politecnico di Milano (Milan, Italy), University of Tubingen (Germany), Tokyo Institute of Technology, Korean Advanced Institute of Science & Technology, University of Monterrey (Mexico), and the University of Puerto Rico. These are premier research and teaching institutions in their respective countries.
