Dr Daniel Espino

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Daniel’s research is broadly focused on the mechanics of connective tissues –noting that blood itself is a classed as a connective tissue. This has led to a wide range of studies on individual tissues, organs and physiological systems; with experimental and computational platforms being developed to study the mechanics of their function or failure, and potential applications to either surgery or medical devices.

Specific examples of the application of experimental and computational techniques include evaluating:

the mechanics of the mitral heart valve including its surgical repair;
the mechanics of the intervertebral disc and a posterior stabilisation device,
dynamics and failure mechanics of articular cartilage,
blood-flow using a numerical model, including its application to the design of hemodialysis catheters.

Research Groups

Bio-medical Engineering

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: student-centred, supportive, collaborative.

Provision of Training

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later

Progression Monitoring and Management

I am here for advice and guidance to help you reach the goals you set for yourself.

Communication

I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or my/our expectations.

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once per fortnight

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

Meetings will be a mixture of face to face, via video chat or telephone, and I am usually contactable for an instant response 1 or 2 days per week.

Working Pattern

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 2 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Dr Espino is supervising no projects this year.