The Department of Systems Design Engineering is a globally unique interdisciplinary department with flexible and innovative programs dedicated to the study of complex systems and their design.
Our interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs blend engineering, mathematics, and social sciences to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle the most pressing technological challenges of today and tomorrow. In addition to our new Biomedical Engineering program, Systems Design remains committed to Human Factors, Mechatronics, and Societal and Environmental Systems.
Capstone Design Projects
Each year, graduating Systems Design Engineering and Biomedical Engineering students collaborate in teams to tackle real-world challenges. Applying their knowledge and creativity to engineer solutions that make a difference, students create cutting-edge technology using their design-thinking skills, developed throughout their academic journey. Capstone prepares students to confidently tackle challenges, drive change, and positively impact society as they begin their careers.
In 2024, three BME teams participated in the Esch Pitch Competition: Adapt, Saturn, and ClarifEye. Adapt and Saturn each won $12K while ClarifEye won a $5K People's Choice Award.
News
Student’s charity run raises funds for mental health
Christopher Macartney, a fourth-year biomedical engineering student, organized a Run for Mental Health on the University of Waterloo campus, raising $2,943.
Igor Acts of Kindness Day: Remembering a beloved professor
In memory of Dr. Igor Ivkovic, the Department of Systems Design Engineering (SYDE) holds Igor Acts of Kindness Day on April 2 each year.
SYDE professor in collaboration with global experts on AI Space Sustainability project
Associate professor, Dr. Nasser Lashgarian Azad, is collaborating with multiple universities and colleges across the globe on a £1.5M AI Space Sustainability project.
Events
Seminar by Hamza Mouharrar
Research Seminar - Synthetic Protein Circuits to Program Intercellular Signaling for Tissue Engineering
Seminar hosted by Dr. Alex Vlahos.
Research Seminar - Improving Implant Design Through Biomimetic Approaches & Correlative Multiscale Performance Assessment Toolsets
Seminar hosted by Dr. Liza DiCecco.