Laurel Kuxhaus

Dr. Laurel Kuxhaus is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering at Clarkson University's Coulter School of Engineering & Applied Sciences. As a biomechanical engineer with expertise in orthopedic biomechanics, she bridges engineering principles with clinical applications to improve patient outcomes. Her research spans both fundamental biomechanical studies and translational medical device development.

• Ph.D. in Bioengineering (University of Pittsburgh, 2008)
• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering (Cornell University, 2003)
• Dual B.S. in Engineering Mechanics and Music (Michigan State University, 2001)

Her research investigates musculoskeletal mechanics through ex-vivo models of orthopedic trauma and repair, combining theoretical modeling with experimental validation. Current projects include spinal fracture prevention, cancellous bone material characterization, and novel intramedullary device design. Her work has been cited 8 times across key biomechanics journals.

Selected publications reveal trends in spinal biomechanics, elbow joint analysis, and bone material properties. She collaborates extensively with institutions like the NSF and ASB, and her lab has produced award-winning students including Nicole Zaino (NSF Graduate Research Fellowship) and Katie Slocum (Honors Thesis). Dr. Kuxhaus also contributes to biomechanics education through active learning pedagogy.

• Fellow of ASME (2017)
• ASME Congressional Fellow (2018-19)
• ORS Business Plan Competition Runner-Up (2018)
• NSF Program Director (2019)

She has mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate students including Nicole Zaino, Megan DeRidder, and Stacey Zeigler, while maintaining collaborations with Dr. George Fulk, Dr. Kathleen Issen, and Dr. Arthur Michalek. Her lab's research on topics like vertebral fractures and thumb force production has been presented at ASB, SB3C, and ORS conferences.