Anton Bowden

Anton Bowden is a Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Brigham Young University (BYU), College of Engineering. He is also the director of the BYU Applied Biomechanics Engineering Laboratory, where he conducts research at the intersection of biomechanics, medical device innovation, and engineering education.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Bioengineering, University of Utah (2003)
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (Minor: Computer Science), Utah State University (1996)

Research Interests: Dr. Bowden's research focuses on spinal biomechanics, particularly understanding the mechanical causes of low back pain and developing medical devices for spinal treatment. He employs advanced techniques such as nonlinear finite element analysis, medical imaging, and mechanical testing. His work extends to nanocomposite biomaterials for strain sensing and engineering leadership education. He emphasizes computational modeling of soft tissues and implant design using compliant mechanisms.

Publication Trends: His recent publications reflect a consistent focus on spinal biomechanics, with strong emphasis on disc degeneration, ligament mechanics, and finite element modeling. There is a clear interdisciplinary trend involving materials science, particularly in the development of piezoresistive nanocomposites for biomedical sensing applications. His work bridges fundamental biomechanics with translational medical device innovation.

Scientific Awards:

• National Science Foundation CAREER Award
• Weidman Professorship in Leadership (2013–2016)
• Wesley P. Lloyd Award for Distinction in Graduate Education (2024)
• Outstanding Faculty Research Award, BYU Mechanical Engineering (2021)
• Excellence in Scholarship Award, Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering (2020)
• Technology Transfer Award, BYU (2014)
• NCEES Service Recognition (5-year and 10-year)

Advising and Grants: Dr. Bowden actively mentors a large group of graduate students, currently advising 6 PhD candidates and 2 MS candidates. He has secured significant research funding, evidenced by the NSF CAREER Award and multiple patents. His professional service includes editorial roles in journals such as Sensors and ASME Journal of Biomechanical Engineering, and leadership in the Orthopaedic Research Society and NCEES committees.

Labs and Teams: He leads the BYU Applied Biomechanics Engineering Laboratory and collaborates extensively with researchers at BYU and beyond, including Dr. Larry Howell on compliant mechanisms, Dr. David Fullwood on nanocomposites, and international collaborators such as Dr. Dino Samartzis at Hong Kong University. His lab fosters interdisciplinary research integrating mechanical engineering, materials science, and clinical orthopaedics.