Dawn M. Elliott

Dr. Dawn M. Elliott is the Blue and Gold Distinguished Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Associate Dean for Graduate and Post-Graduate Education at the University of Delaware. She holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Duke University (1999), an M.S. in Engineering Mechanics from the University of Cincinnati (1995), and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan (1988). Her research focuses on structure-function relationships in load-bearing fibrous tissues, including intervertebral discs, tendons, and menisci. She investigates degeneration, injury, and repair mechanisms using advanced technologies like mechanical testing, mathematical modeling, and imaging. Dr. Elliott has received the Blue and Gold Distinguished Professorship, reflecting her academic and research excellence. Her work spans from basic science to translational studies, addressing musculoskeletal disorders. She leads a lab integrating interdisciplinary approaches to advance tissue regeneration and clinical solutions.

Education

• Ph.D. Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 1999
• M.S. Engineering Mechanics, University of Cincinnati, 1995
• B.S. Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, 1988

Research Interests

Dr. Elliott’s program examines biomechanical factors in disc degeneration, tendinopathy, and meniscus injury. She employs novel mechanical tests, computational models, and imaging to understand tissue microstructure and function. Her team explores therapies for tissue repair and regeneration, including hydrogels and stem cell approaches. Recent studies include in vivo disc degeneration models, tendon microstructure analysis via SEM, and meniscus repair outcomes in large animals.

Publications

Her recent work addresses disc lactate/oxygen dynamics, tendon structure-age relationships, MRI-based statistical models for disc degeneration, and meniscus kinematics post-injury. These studies highlight her focus on bridging clinical and engineering challenges in musculoskeletal health.

Awards

• Blue and Gold Distinguished Professor, University of Delaware

Labs & Teams

Her lab, part of the Biomedical Engineering Department at the University of Delaware, is dedicated to advancing musculoskeletal biomechanics and regenerative therapies. Collaborations span engineering, medicine, and imaging disciplines.