Murray Maxwell Biomechanics Laboratory

The Murray Maxwell Biomechanics Laboratory is a biomedical engineering-based research group which studies the links between joint injury and diseases such as osteoarthritis and tendinopathy.

We study how injuries affect the mechanical function of joints, how changes in mechanical function drive disease, and how these injuries can be prevented.

We perform independent research, while also collaborating with orthopaedic surgeons and the biotechnology industry.

Our research focuses on the prevention and repair of ligament and tendon injuries - and improving orthopaedic devices and surgical techniques.

Our projects are aimed at:

Improving graft options for ligament replacement
Improving outcomes following tendon repair surgery
Treating weakness, pain and osteoarthritis following knee or ACL injury
Improving treatment options for tendon and ligament injury

Our research involves a wide range of techniques including:

Biomechanical tissue testing and analysis
Testing of joints and implants
Analysis of grafts, sutures and other materials
The manufacture of custom testing fixtures and experimental equipment

Lead

Associate Professor Elizabeth Clarke, PhD, BE (Mechanical Biomedical), BSc

Director, Murray Maxwell Biomechanics Laboratory
Kolling Institute
USYD, Faculty of Medicine and Health

People

Dr Carina Blaker

Postdoctoral Scientist

Samantha Hefferan - PhD Student

Bella Wooldridge - Research Placement Student

Sophie Wines - Honours Student

Daniel Foley - Honours Student

Network

https://ibjr.sydney.edu.au/

Projects

Assessing kangaroo tendon as a graft for human ACL and tendon surgery in the hand
The role of prior mild joint injuries, such as sprains, in the risk of severe knee injury and osteoarthritis
Effects of tendinopathy on tendon biomechanics, biochemistry, structure and molecular biology
Injury, repair, reconstruction, and regeneration of tendons and ligaments