5 questions with the chair of biomedical engineering

Jorge Riera has spent his career advancing research on brain disorders. Now, as chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering in FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing, he is positioning the department to meet the rapidly evolving demands of health care innovation. He previously served as interim chair and graduate program director. 

Here, Riera discusses the department’s priorities and South Florida’s role in shaping the future of medicine. 

Can you tell us about your research background and what brought you to FIU? 

I began my education at the University of Havana, followed by advanced studies in Europe and postdoctoral and faculty work in Japan. I joined FIU in 2011 to build a research program in neuroimaging. Since then, I’ve directed the Neuronal Mass Dynamics Laboratory, where we study how brain imaging technologies can be used to better diagnose and treat neurological disorders. 

We’re seeing major shifts in health care technology, from AI-powered diagnostics to wearable devices. What trends are you watching most closely? 

Several forces are converging. Advances in artificial intelligence, miniaturized sensors and personalized medicine are creating new ways to improve patient outcomes. In South Florida, these trends are especially important because our population is aging rapidly. That reality pushes us to focus on age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer and metabolic disorders. 

How is FIU’s department responding to these challenges and opportunities? 

Our faculty focus on the real health needs of our community. The department is aligned around three major research pillars: cardiovascular disease linked to metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases driven by neuroinflammation, and the development of innovative optical and electronic technologies for healthcare. We also expect continued growth in cancer-related research. 

What do you see as the department’s core research strength? 

Our strength is applying rigorous engineering approaches to real clinical problems. Our work spans fundamental science through devices tested with patients. Faculty research includes studying how concussions can lead to epilepsy, developing early-detection technologies for cancer, advancing tools to monitor cardiac disease, investigating mechanisms of brain inflammation, and creating new materials for bone regeneration in cancer patients. 

How is artificial intelligence shaping biomedical engineering, and what should students understand about pursuing this field at FIU? 

The real power of AI in biomedical engineering lies in pattern recognition across massive datasets. For example, AI can analyze thousands of medical images to detect subtle changes that would be impossible for humans to identify. The same applies to genetic data and medical records. 

At FIU, students gain strong foundational knowledge and adaptable skills. Technology will keep changing, but the principles of good engineering endure. Our students work on real projects, often with clinical partners, and learn how to translate classroom knowledge into practical healthcare solutions.