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Capabilities Spotlight: Biomechanics Research Building

The University of Nebraska at Omaha's world-class biomechanics facility helps keep soldiers ready

July 09, 2024

  • Aerial view of large brick building

    The Department of Biomechanics, Center for Research in Human Movement Variability and Center for Cardiovascular Research in Biomechanics are housed in the 53,000-square-foot Biomechanics Research Building at the University of Nebraska at Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska.

  • Person in harness on large treadmill in front of very large curved screen displaying coastline

    The virtual reality lab features real-time gait analysis interactive lab and an instrumented split-belt treadmill with complete visual immersion capabilities.

  • Lab full of mechanical equipment and conference table and chairs

    The Additive Manufacturing Laboratory, directed by Dr. Jorge Zuniga, includes a primary 675-square-foot space for general activities and a secondary 224-square-foot space designed specifically for printing metal components. This laboratory is funded by NIH and NASA for the development of medical devices, such as prosthetics and orthoses, as well as medical-grade antimicrobial polymers. The laboratory is equipped with a wide range of 3D printers, ranging from industrial to commercial grade, capable of printing many different polymers and metals.

Our Nation’s warfighters face numerous physical challenges, even before engaging an enemy. Long marches with heavy packs across unfamiliar territory can cause considerable wear and tear on a soldier’s body. Injuries sustained during military operations can significantly affect a unit’s capability and ability to complete the mission. Even if soldiers haven’t been injured, physical and mental exhaustion can have a major effect on their performance. Long-term effects of injuries can follow these service men and women for decades.

It is for these reasons and more that researchers from defense agencies, academic institutions, and private companies are relentlessly seeking to understand how injuries happen, how they can be prevented and how to rehabilitate service members quickly.

Pushing modern tools forward is critical. Putting objective data on troops’ conditions into the hands of commanders can help determine in advance what a unit will be capable of.

"Nonlinear analysis of human movement can reveal underlying aspects of human states including fatigue, instability and performance prediction," said Dr. Terry Thiem, a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and current director of medical countermeasures at the National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Nebraska. "Such analysis may be instrumental to tracking force readiness from the individual soldier to the entire unit, giving invaluable information to commanders to address potential physical issues before they become a problem."

It is this type of actionable foresight that is putting the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Biomechanics Research Building on the map. Leveraging its considerable expertise and recently expanded world-class facilities, UNO researchers and students are pursuing solutions for warfighters to avoid physical risks and injuries, aid command decisions and keep military units in shape for service.

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About the National Strategic Research Institute

Through the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska leading scientists deliver innovative national security research, technology, product and strategy development, training and exercises, and subject matter expertise to the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. One of only 15 DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Centers in the country, NSRI is sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command and works to ensure the United States’ safety and preparedness against increasingly sophisticated threats. Read about our mission.

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Katelyn Ideus

Katelyn Ideus

Director, Strategic Communications & Engagement

(402) 659-5886 kideus@nsri.nebraskaresearch.gov

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As the DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) of U.S. Strategic Command and the University of Nebraska System, the National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) delivers solutions for strategic deterrence and CWMD mission requirements gaps. Our rapid-response capabilities and efficient contracting vehicle can help federal government program managers meet critical research and development needs. Connect with us to learn more.

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