Eric Lima

Dr. Eric Lima is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, where he serves as Director of The Open-Source Hardware Laboratory within the Albert Nerken School of Engineering.

He received his doctorate in Biomedical Engineering in 2008 from Columbia University, where his research focused on cartilage and bone regeneration using living cells and custom-designed bioreactors. At Cooper Union, he continues this tissue engineering research while bringing hands-on design expertise to the classroom.

Dr. Lima's research spans tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and open-source hardware development. He has pioneered several open-source laboratory devices including an electrospinning device for nano/micro-scale fibers, a test tube spinner, a hydrostatic pressure loader developed with Mount Sinai Medical Center, and a mechanical tester utilizing CNC machines. His work democratizes access to cutting-edge biomedical engineering technologies.

He directs the Invention Factory, an intensive summer program where student teams conceive inventions, build prototypes, and file provisional patents. Notable student projects include the Snip-It Tape Dispenser and Dual-Flush Easy Toilet Conversion Kit.

His notable awards include:

• 2021 Distinguished Professor in Bioengineering
• C.V. Starr Distinguished Professor of Engineering (2021)
• VentureWell 2017 Faculty Grant Award

As an educator, Dr. Lima teaches design classes using milling machines, welders, and lathes, helping students combine mechanical, electrical, and programming elements to prototype ideas. His open-source philosophy aligns with Cooper Union's founding mission of making knowledge accessible to all.