2009 Research Magazine
The cover of the current issue of WPI Research features Morgan Stanton, a PhD candidate in chemistry and biochemistry at WPI, who works in the laboratory of Christopher Lambert, associate research professor in the WPI Bioengineering Institute, helping develop engineered surfaces that can react with biological molecules and cells.
Lambert is working with Norman Garceau, president and chief scientific officer of Blue Sky Biotech, a tenant in WPI's Life Sciences and Bioengineering Center, to develop an engineered surface that models a human cell membrane capable of holding a protein known as an insulin receptor. If it works, the surface could become a new screening tool to help develop drugs for diabetes. See the story "A Meeting of Minds" for more.
Featured Articles
In the winter of 2009, Diran Apelian, Howmet Professor of Mechanical Engineering at WPI and founder of the university's Metal Processing Institute, received the highest distinction accorded any engineer: election to the National Academy of Engineering.
As we grow increasingly uneasy about the safety of our data, Wenjing Lou and other WPI researchers working in information security try to overcome our anxiety by making digital devices and networks more trustworthy. 
Through studies of fire dynamics, computer models, policy development, and state-of the-art engineering, researchers in WPI's world-renowned Fire Protection Engineering Department are making the world a safer place. 
Can a building foster innovation? By breaking down barriers between academic departments and between university and corporate researchers, WPI's Life Sciences and Bioengineering Center brings people and ideas together in new ways. 
Researchers like Elke Rundensteiner are developing advanced tools that tap into massive databases to track people during disasters, reduce the cost of health care, or predict which cancer patients will benefit from surgery. 
As we look to harness the wind for more of our energy needs, students and faculty at WPI are making important gains in wind research, work that may well help make wind power more useful, economical, and reliable. 
As mobile phones usage grows, so does the need for bandwidth to carry mobile services--a problem, since most of the prime radio spectrum is already taken. With innovative tools, Alex Wyglinski is making room in a crowded radio spectrum.
About WPI Research
WPI Research, the Worcester Polytechnic Institute research magazine, is produced annually for the Division of Academic Affairs by the Division of Marketing and Communications.
Editor: Michael Dorsey, Director of Research Communications
Design: FORGE worldwide
Photography: Patrick O'Connor, principal; FJ Gaylor Photography; contributions from WPI faculty and students
Production: Charna Westervelt, Director of Publications; Dianne Vanacore, Production Coordinator; Peggy Isaacson, Copy Editor
