Alisa Morss Clyne

Dr. Alisa Morss Clyne is a Professor in the Fischell Department of Bioengineering at the University of Maryland, affiliated with the Brain and Behavior Institute and Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices. She directs the Vascular Kinetics Laboratory, focusing on vascular disease mechanisms linking altered blood flow/metabolites to conditions like atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's, and Niemann Pick. Her work integrates 3D in vitro systems, computational models, and clinical studies to develop therapeutic strategies.

• Ranks/Titles: Fischell Fellow, ADVANCE Professor
• Affiliations: Brain and Behavior Institute, Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices

Research emphasizes mechanobiology and metabolism interactions, particularly how mechanical forces (e.g., shear stress) and glucose metabolism influence endothelial cell behavior. Current projects include investigating APOE4 gene effects on Alzheimer's vascular mechanisms and translating findings into human studies through UMD collaborations.

Publications highlight advancements in blood-brain barrier modeling, metabolic flux analysis, and endothelial dysfunction in pulmonary hypertension. Key awards include the NSF CAREER Award (2008), AHA Scientist Development Grant (2010), and BMES-CMBE Rising Star (2011). She is a fellow of ASME, BMES, AHA, and AIMBE.

Committed to diversity in STEM, Dr. Clyne received the Elizabeth Bingham Mentoring Award for initiatives promoting female and underrepresented minority participation. Her educational innovations include course-based research experiences in biofluid mechanics and co-op programs enhancing student retention.