About Me
Jamie M. Benson (she/her) received her PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Delaware under the mentorship of Prof. David L. Burris in the Materials Tribology Lab. The core of Jamie's doctoral research was to better understand the mechanical processes that drive tissue-level hydration of articular cartilage and how this information can be used to: 1) make predictions on how different lifestyle variables (i.e., type and frequency of exercise) impact joint function, 2) how these predictions translate to prevention and treatment protocols for osteoarthritis, and 3) how to design new replacement materials for cartilage and other soft tissues.
After completing her PhD in 2023 she joined Dr. Dawn Elliott's Multiscale Tissue Mechanics lab at the University of Delaware as Postdoctoral Research Associate. Her postdoctoral work is focused on using imaging techniques (MRI) to understand knee meniscus mechanics as they relate to meniscus injury and surgical repair.
In addition to Jamie's technical scientific work, she also is a strong advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM. At the University of Delaware (UD) Jamie served as the Biomedical Engineering representative and the Outreach Coordinator for UD's Women in Engineering. In these roles, notably, she organized the first LGBTQIA+ event specifically for graduate students in the college of engineering, and facilitated an ongoing tutoring and after-school enrichment program with Serviam Girls Academy, a local all-girls school for historically underserved families. Outside of UD, Jamie was an active member of the national Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) Diversity Committee. In this role she worked with faculty and peers across institutions nationwide to develop programming promoting diversity, equity and inclusion within the BMES.
When Jamie isn't working, she enjoys making pottery and spending time with her dog.