Murray Maxwell Biomechanics Laboratory

The Murray Maxwell Biomechanics Laboratory is a biomedical engineering-based research group which studies the links between joint injury and diseases such as osteoarthritis and tendinopathy.

We study how injuries affect the mechanical function of joints, how changes in mechanical function drive disease, and how these injuries can be prevented.

We perform independent research, while also collaborating with orthopaedic surgeons and the biotechnology industry.

Our research focuses on the prevention and repair of ligament and tendon injuries - and improving orthopaedic devices and surgical techniques.

Our projects are aimed at:

  • Improving graft options for ligament replacement
  • Improving outcomes following tendon repair surgery
  • Treating weakness, pain and osteoarthritis following knee or ACL injury
  • Improving treatment options for tendon and ligament injury

Our research involves a wide range of techniques including:

  • Biomechanical tissue testing and analysis
  • Testing of joints and implants
  • Analysis of grafts, sutures and other materials
  • The manufacture of custom testing fixtures and experimental equipment


Dr Elizabeth ClarkeAssociate Professor Elizabeth Clarke, PhD, BE (Mechanical Biomedical), BSc

Director, Murray Maxwell Biomechanics Laboratory
Kolling Institute
USYD, Faculty of Medicine and Health

Dr Carina Blaker

Postdoctoral Scientist

 Dr Dylan Ashton

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Samantha Hefferan - PhD Student

Samuel Oliver - Research Assistant

Louise Reynard - Visiting Researcher

Marcus Zavala - Visiting Student

  • Assessing kangaroo tendon as a graft for human ACL and tendon surgery in the hand
  • The role of prior mild joint injuries, such as sprains, in the risk of severe knee injury and osteoarthritis
  • Effects of tendinopathy on tendon biomechanics, biochemistry, structure and molecular biology
  • Injury, repair, reconstruction, and regeneration of tendons and ligaments

New robot boosting research and patient care 

Events, News and Seminars

Research questions the value of injectable medications for osteoarthritis

Research questions the value of injectable medications for osteoarthritis

Our researchers at the Kolling Institute are encouraging those with osteoarthritis to rely on treatm..... Read more

Category: Musculoskeletal Research, Research Excellence

Back pain cases to rise sharply

Back pain cases to rise sharply

A new study by researchers at the Kolling Institute estimates more than 800 million people will be l..... Read more

Category: Musculoskeletal Research

Researchers call for a greater focus on the physical impact of whiplash injuries

Researchers call for a greater focus on the physical impact of whiplash injuries

Researchers from the Kolling Institute have led an international study investigating why some people..... Read more

Category: Research Excellence, World-leading technology