Bill O'Brien, Jr.

Bill O'Brien, Jr. is a Research Professor in the Biomedical and Translational Sciences department at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He also holds the Donald Biggar Willet Professor of Engineering position since 2003.

Education:

• Ph.D. in 1970, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• M.S. in 1968, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• B.S. in 1966, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

His research focuses on ultrasonic bioengineering and biophysics, particularly the interaction of ultrasound with biological tissues and fluids. Projects span medical diagnostics, agricultural quality assessment, and nondestructive testing, with collaborations including Mayo Clinic, University of Washington, and University of Cincinnati. Key applications include blood flow quantification, tissue characterization, and ultrasound safety standards.

His publications highlight the interdisciplinary nature of his work, spanning biomedical imaging, veterinary science, and food safety. Research trends emphasize quantitative ultrasound, tissue elasticity measurement, and safety dosimetry.

Scientific Awards:

• IEEE Life Fellow (2008)
• NIH MERIT Award (2006)
• AIUM William J. Fry Memorial Lecture Award (2007)
• Donald Biggar Willet Professor of Engineering (2003-present)
• Fellow of IEEE (1989)

Bill O'Brien has been recognized for teaching excellence, including the UIUC College of Engineering’s Advising Award (2004). His public service roles involve leadership in ultrasound safety standards, NIH committees, and international societies like AIUM and WFUMB. He served as Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Transactions on Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control from 1985-2001.

His laboratory pioneered methods for ultrasound dosimetry and tissue analysis, with applications in cardiology, dermatology, and food science. Collaborations span institutions such as Mayo Clinic, University of Washington, and University of Cincinnati.