The course addresses basic and applied concepts of metals and ceramics as biomaterials. The students will be exposed to the principles, properties and applications of amorphous and crystalline inorganic and metallic systems for biological applications. Specific emphasis will be placed on processing biochemical activity, biodegradation mechanisms, and various properties relevant for biological response. Cellular interactions with various surfaces and immunological responses will also be covered. Applications of biomaterials to be discussed include tissue engineering, artificial implants and devices. Part I of this course is offered in the Spring and focuses on the principles, properties and applications of polymers as biomaterials. Prerequisites: None, but 09-105 Introduction to Modern Chemistry and 42-101 Introduction to Biomedical Engineering will be useful. Also known as 27-511.