Dr. Christian M. Puttlitz

Department Head & Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Director, Orthopaedic Bioengineering Research Laboratory

Department of Clinical Sciences

School of Advanced Materials Discovery

School of Biomedical Engineering

Dr. Puttlitz’s research interests are mainly focused on using experimental and computation techniques to investigate orthopaedic conditions and their treatments. Examples of his current research include using the finite element method to study how loading changes in the spine following intervertebral disc replacement.

Education

Ph.D. 1999, University of Iowa – Biomedical Engineering
M.S. 1993, Clemson University – Bioengineering
B.S. 1992, Michigan State University – Materials Science Engineering

Resources

Research Interests

Orthopaedic Biomechanics
Experimental techniques, animal models and computation techniques to investigate orthopaedic conditions and their treatments
Current research includes:
- 3D printing for fibrocartilage regeneration (intervertebral disc and temporomandibular joint)
- Prediction of fracture healing
- Mechanobiology of orthopaedic soft tissues
- Cell-free tissue engineering (exosomes)

Honors and Awards

2014 – Editor’s Choice: one of the nine highest impact papers in Journal of Biomechanical Engineering in 2014, Journal of Biomechanical Engineering
2012 – Distinguishing Visiting Research Scholar, University of British Columbia
2011 – Monfort Professor, Colorado State University
2010 – Editor’s Choice: one of the highest impact papers in Anesthesiology in 2009, Anesthesiology
2010 – Whitecloud Basic Science Award, International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques