Remodelling Project: Dr. Dave Cooper and the Mysteries Inside our Bones

A self-described computer nerd, Dave Cooper was always fascinated by the way technology could push fundamental science research forward. After bone density scans became commonplace in the 1980s, Cooper watched imaging technology and forensic science begin to advance. Today, his laboratory uses the Canadian Light Source to take detailed snapshots of bones evolving and changing in real time, honing treatments and improving outcomes for patients with osteoporosis. "People are living longer, and part of living longer and healthier lives will be protecting the skeleton," said Cooper, who says unraveling the mysteries inside bones and their evolution over time can have ramifications across health disciplines, even for space travel. "Now, we can watch it as it's happening rather than using a blunter instrument after the fact," he said.