About
What We Do
The St. John’s Center for Translational Engineering and Medicine (CTEM) brings together a cluster of Fischell Department of Bioengineering (BIOE) faculty embedded within the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Their mission is to develop and translate next-generation bioengineering technologies that drive innovation in both biological research and clinical care. The Center focuses on bridging a critical gap: advancing research beyond proof-of-concept and into real-world biomedical applications. Through ongoing collaboration with scientists and clinicians, researchers at CTEM work to refine, mature, and deliver impactful technologies. The physical separation between the schools of Engineering and Medicine has traditionally limited collaboration. The St. John’s Center for Translational Engineering and Medicine has closed that gap by co-locating faculty and research space, strengthening partnerships, and accelerating progress in translational biomedical innovation.
Research Application
Innovative biomedical technologies developed at the Center have broad applications across biomedicine. With the convenience of a shared location, we aim to drive breakthroughs in key areas, including:
- Neuroscience
- Critical Care and Resuscitation
- Cancer
- Surgical Innovation & Trauma
- Rehabilitation
Core Technology Areas
The St. John’s Center for Translational Engineering and Medicine focuses on advancing technologies that support biomedical research and align with the Fischell Department of Bioengineering’s expertise, including:
- Imaging and Analytical Technologies
Microscopy, biosensing, diagnostics, and therapy monitoring tools. - Informatics
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, and personalized medicine applications. - Drug Development and Delivery
Innovations in biologics, biomaterials, and novel drug formulations or delivery methods. - Engineered Tissue and Disease Models
Organoids, lab-on-a-chip systems, and other platforms that simulate human biology.
St. John’s Center for Translational Engineering and Medicine Co-Directors:
BIOE Associate Professor Giuliano Scarcelli will lead the Edward & Jennifer St. John Center for Translational Engineering and Medicine as co-director alongside Osamah J. Saeedi, clinical co-director and Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at UMSOM. Their collaborative work using cutting-edge ophthalmologic imaging to address ocular diseases such as glaucoma exemplifies the center’s mission of fostering cross-campus partnerships in the development of interventions that improve patients’ lives.
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