Dr Vaishakh Raju

Profile

As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, University of Leeds, I specialize in computational biomechanics, finite element analysis (FEA), and multibody dynamics analysis (MDA). My current research focuses on cranial biomechanics and kinesis in bird skulls, integrating advanced computational modeling with experimental validation.

During my doctoral research, I worked extensively on biphasic nonlinear soft tissue modeling, employing hyperelastic and viscoelastic constitutive models to simulate knee joint mechanics across different gait cycles. Additionally, I explored material optimization for knee implants, enhancing polymer mechanical properties through a novel irradiation technique.

With expertise in biomechanics, computational modeling, materials science, and programming, I am passionate about advancing research at the intersection of engineering and biology to improve both medical and biological applications.

Research interests

My research interests lie at the intersection of computational biomechanics, soft tissue modeling, and material optimization for biomedical applications. I specialize in finite element analysis (FEA), multibody dynamics analysis (MDA), and constitutive modeling of biological tissues, with a strong emphasis on integrating computational and experimental approaches to study biomechanical systems.

Currently, my research extends into cranial biomechanics and kinesis in bird skulls, where I apply advanced computational modeling techniques to investigate functional performance. This includes utilizing FEA and MDA to explore cranial mechanics, supported by experimental validation of skull material properties. A key aspect of this work involves developing Python-based computational models to integrate muscle dynamics into FEA simulations.

My ongoing research is supported by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), UKRI, under the grant titled "Understanding Functional Performance in Bird Skulls: Advanced Computational Modelling to Investigate Cranial Biomechanics and Kinesis” (Grant Ref: BB/X014479/1).

I am particularly interested in the application of computational biomechanics in evolutionary biology, orthopedics, and biomedical engineering, aiming to bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications.

Qualifications

• PhD (Biomechanics)
• M.Tech (Mechanical Engineering)
• B.Tech (Mechanical Engineering)