Miguel Perez

Miguel Perez is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics at Virginia Tech, with a concurrent appointment as a Research Scientist in the Division of Data and Analytics at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. His work bridges biomechanics, transportation safety, and data analysis, focusing on driver distraction, collision avoidance systems, and accessibility in transportation infrastructure.

• Ph.D., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, 2005
• M.S., Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, 1999
• B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez, 1997

Dr. Perez specializes in naturalistic driving studies, data standardization, and modeling driver performance in complex environments. His research extends to temporary disability assessment and infrastructure accessibility for individuals with physical limitations, leveraging statistical models and machine learning for safety improvements.

His scientific awards include the Golden Pen Award (multiple contract recognitions over $5M), Liviu Librescu Faculty Prize, and Ford Foundation Fellowship. He has mentored students in biomechanics, data analysis, and transportation safety, including J. Valente, A.E. Badger, and W. Huang.

• Division of Data and Analytics Lab
• Collaborator in SHRP 2
• Focus on real-world driver behavior and crash risk modeling