Research at Baskin Engineering is expanding the world’s understanding of health and well-being—empowering individuals and communities through responsible technology aimed at improving the health of society. From advancing diagnostic tools to designing assistive devices, researchers are addressing critical challenges in medicine, public health, accessibility, biotechnology, and more. Through innovative, interdisciplinary solutions, Baskin Engineering is shaping a healthier and more equitable future.
Scientists discover ‘troublemaker’ blood cells linked to aging and disease
UC Santa Cruz researchers identified a novel group of blood platelet stem cells that contribute to clotting disorders such as strokes and cardiovascular disease, which could lead to new treatment approaches.
Research in action
New blood test for noncoding RNA significantly improves cancer detection
A novel liquid biopsy technology developed by Assistant Professor of Biomolecular Engineering Daniel Kim’s lab leverages RNA “dark matter” to enhance cancer diagnosis.
How optogenetics can put the brakes on epilepsy seizures
Using pulses of light, researchers have discovered a new way to prevent seizure-like activity in neurons — opening doors to innovative epilepsy treatments.
Prestigious $3.8M NIH grant will advance RSV vaccine development
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common and potentially dangerous virus, yet no vaccine exists. Professor of Biomolecular Engineering Rebecca DuBois is leading efforts to develop a novel vaccine to address this critical health need.
New apps will enable safer indoor navigation for blind people
New game-changing apps will impact the way blind people navigate indoor spaces, offering a safer way to move through areas where GPS can’t reach.
Novel bioluminescent technology enables non-invasive biological imaging
Researchers are developing artificial proteins that light up with bioluminescence, unlocking exciting new ways to study biology and transform bioimaging, diagnostics, and more.
Electrical engineer will develop next-generation x-ray technology for accessible preventative healthcare
Catching heart disease early can make a significant difference for preventing cardiovascular events. Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Shiva Abbaszadeh is developing new technology that can be easily incorporated into routine chest x-rays.
BE experts
Shiva Abbaszadeh
Phillip Berman
David Bernick
Angela Brooks
Christina Chung
Melissa Cline
Russell Corbett-Detig
David Deamer
Rebecca DuBois
Aviv Elor
Camilla Forsberg
Marcella Gomez
Javier Gonzalez-Rocha
Richard “Ed” Green
David Haussler
Alex Ioannidis
Katherine Isbister
Vanessa Jönsson
Kevin Karplus
Daniel Kim
Sri Kurniawan
David Lee
Zehang “Richard” Li
Todd Lowe
Roberto Manduchi
Razvan Marinescu
Ann McCartney
Karen Miga
Mohammed Mostajo Radji
Benedict Paten
Nader Pourmand
Kathryn Ringland
Abel Rodriguez
Marco Rolandi
Shelbi Russell
Sofie Salama
Magy Seif El Nasr
Tal Sharf
Ali Shariati
Holger Schmidt
Josh Stuart
Mircea Teodorescu
Christopher Vollmers
Ahmet (Ali) Yanik
Andy (Hsien-Wei) Yeh
Jingchun Zhu
For media inquiries contact: Emily Cerf, Engineering Writer and Media Relations Specialist: ecerf@ucsc.edu
New diagnostic approach achieves accuracy of PCR tests with faster and simpler nanopore system
A new method can test for SARS-CoV-2 and Zika virus with the same or better accuracy as high-precision PCR tests in a matter of hours — developed by UC Santa Cruz Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Holger Schmidt and his collaborators.
UCSC tool becomes primary method to identify lineages of Covid-19 worldwide
Widespread use of a tool made by researchers at the UCSC Genomics Institute are enabling public health officials to more accurately identify and track variants of Covid-19.
Bold new solutions to society’s most complex issues
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