Tamara Reid Bush is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Associate Dean for Inclusion and Diversity in the College of Engineering at Michigan State University (MSU). She holds adjunct roles in Biomedical Engineering and directs the Biomechanical Design Research Laboratory. Her research focuses on biomedical engineering applications, including seating mechanics, hand function analysis, musculoskeletal dysfunction, and pressure ulcer prevention. Education: Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, all from Michigan State University. Research interests span biomechanical design, soft tissue mechanics, medical device development, and ergonomics. Her work bridges engineering principles with clinical applications, addressing challenges in rehabilitation, aging, and disability. Notable projects include automated seated repositioning systems, ergonomic package redesign, and studies on thumb mobility in osteoarthritis patients. Awards include the AIMBE Fellowship (2021), American Society of Biomechanics Founder's Award (2020), and recognition as a National Academy of Engineering Frontiers of Engineering Education participant (2013). She has served on editorial boards and leadership roles in ASME and the American Society of Biomechanics. Teaching includes courses like Statics (ME221), Dynamics (ME361), and Biomechanical Design (ME497). She advises over 50 graduate and undergraduate students, fostering innovation through projects like pediatric rehabilitation exercisers and prosthetic socket improvements. Her lab’s projects include helmet plug design for MSU football, automated repositioning systems, and accessibility improvements for transportation. Funding and donations support ongoing research and development initiatives.







