Mitch Bell

Mitch Bell is a Rehab Innovation Specialist at UPMC’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He leads the Assist+ initiative, a demonstration space at UPMC Mercy Pavilion providing accessible assistive technology for patients and the public. His work focuses on enabling individuals with disabilities to engage in recreational and daily activities through innovative solutions.

Education: Bell holds a Bachelor’s degree (2016) and a Master’s degree (2019) from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS).

Research Interests: Bell specializes in designing adaptive technologies for gaming, mobility, and daily living. He emphasizes patient-centered solutions, such as 3D-printed game controllers and tactile navigation aids, to enhance quality of life. His approach blends engineering, clinical practice, and community collaboration.

Advising & Grants: While no formal student advisement is listed, Bell collaborates with UPMC clinicians and community groups to secure resources for assistive technology access. The Assist+ program itself operates with institutional support.

Labs & Teams: Bell manages the Assist+ facility, a hub for testing and acquiring assistive devices, located at 1622 Locust St., Pittsburgh. The space is open to all without medical referral, emphasizing community accessibility.