Top 10 Smart Prosthetics experts to follow
Dr. Hugh Herr: A double amputee himself, Dr. Herr is a professor at MIT and leads the Biomechatronics group. He’s renowned for creating advanced prosthetic limbs that mimic natural movement and even offer neural feedback.
Prof. Stanisa Raspopovic: Based at ETH Zurich, Prof. Raspopovic made headlines for his work on bionic prosthetics that allow wearers to “feel” again using neural integration.
Dr. Max Ortiz Catalan: At Chalmers University of Technology, Dr. Catalan has developed pioneering techniques for osseointegration – directly connecting prosthetics to the bone and linking them to muscles and nerves.
Dr. Todd Kuiken: A leading figure at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Dr. Kuiken’s research in targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) has enabled amputees to control their prosthetics using existing nerves.
Prof. Gordon Cheng: Chairing the Institute for Cognitive Systems at TUM (Technical University of Munich), Prof. Cheng’s work focuses on intuitive prosthetics using brain-machine interfaces and tactile feedback.
Dr. Levi Hargrove: Another pioneer at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Dr. Hargrove’s work in machine learning and algorithm development has significantly improved prosthetic functionality, particularly for multiple joint prosthetics.
Prof. Paul Cederna: As a plastic surgeon and researcher at the University of Michigan, Prof. Cederna’s work on regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI) offers potential for more natural prosthetic control.
Dr. Aadeel Akhtar: The CEO of Psyonic, Dr. Akhtar has developed a prosthetic hand that offers touch feedback, being both affordable and accessible for a larger population.
Dr. Michael McAlpine: A professor at the University of Minnesota, Dr. McAlpine’s 3D-printed sensory devices and electronic components lay groundwork for the future of customizable, smart prosthetics.
Dr. Silvestro Micera: Based at the EPFL (École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne) and Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in Italy, Dr. Micera’s work in neural engineering aims to restore sensory feedback in prosthetic limbs, enhancing real-time control.