Yuan-Cheng Fung

Yuan-Cheng Fung

Yuan-Cheng Fung (September 15, 1919 – December 15, 2019) was a prominent Chinese-American bioengineer, scientist, and professor known as one of the founders of biomechanics and the field of bioengineering. His pioneering work laid the foundation for modern biomechanics, blending engineering principles with biological systems, and has had a profound impact on medical research, particularly in understanding the mechanical properties of tissues and the development of artificial organs.

Early Life and Education

Yuan-Cheng Fung was born in Jiangsu, China, and received his Bachelor's degree in 1941 from the National Central University (now Nanjing University). He moved to the United States for his graduate studies, earning a Master's degree in aeronautics from Caltech (California Institute of Technology) in 1945, followed by a Ph.D. in mechanics in 1948. His transition from aeronautics to biomechanics marked a significant shift in his career, focusing on the application of mechanical engineering principles to biological systems.

Career and Contributions

Fung began his academic career at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), where he spent the majority of his professional life. He was instrumental in establishing the bioengineering department at UCSD, one of the first of its kind, and served as its founding chair. Fung's research was groundbreaking in the field of biomechanics, particularly in the study of the mechanical properties of blood vessels and the development of the constitutive laws for soft tissues, which are fundamental to understanding how forces are distributed in biological tissues.

His seminal work, "Biomechanics: Mechanical Properties of Living Tissues," published in 1981, is considered a classic in the field. Fung's research extended beyond soft tissue mechanics to include the study of the respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and the mechanics of cells and tissue engineering. His interdisciplinary approach, combining engineering, biology, and physics, has paved the way for advancements in medical devices, artificial organs, and improved clinical treatments.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his illustrious career, Fung received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to science and engineering. These include the National Medal of Science awarded by the President of the United States in 2000, the Founders Award from the National Academy of Engineering, and the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Mechanical Engineering. He was a member of the National Academy of Engineering, the National Academy of Sciences, and the Institute of Medicine, reflecting his broad impact across multiple disciplines.

Legacy

Yuan-Cheng Fung's legacy is evident in the vast body of work he left behind, the generations of students he mentored, and the interdisciplinary field of biomechanics he helped to establish. His work continues to influence the development of medical devices, the understanding of the mechanical behavior of biological tissues, and the treatment of various medical conditions. Fung passed away on December 15, 2019, but his contributions to bioengineering and biomechanics will continue to benefit society for years to come.

Selected Publications

• Fung, Y.C. (1981). Biomechanics: Mechanical Properties of Living Tissues. New York: Springer-Verlag.
• Fung, Y.C. (1990). Biomechanics: Motion, Flow, Stress, and Growth. New York: Springer-Verlag.
• Fung, Y.C. (1993). Biomechanics: Circulation. New York: Springer-Verlag.

See Also

• Biomechanics
• Bioengineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Tissue engineering

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