Brendon Allen is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Auburn University, and a Ginn Faculty Achievement Fellow. He holds a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida and Brigham Young University. His research focuses on nonlinear and adaptive control, autonomous systems, rehabilitation engineering, robotics, and human-robot interaction. He has received the NSF CAREER Award for his work on telerehabilitation using hybrid exoskeletons. Education: Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida M.S. Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University B.S. Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida Research emphasizes exoskeleton design, teleoperated rehabilitation systems, and control strategies for movement disorders. His recent work includes neuromechanical modeling for exoskeleton optimization and robust control of nonlinear systems. Over 20 peer-reviewed articles since 2017 showcase contributions to FES-cycling systems, RISE control frameworks, and telemedicine applications. Scientific awards: NSF CAREER Award (2023) Ginn Faculty Achievement Fellow (202X) His NSF-funded research develops home-based exoskeleton control frameworks for individuals with movement disorders. Collaborations involve deep learning integration with traditional control methods for safe human-robot interaction.
Parag Sawant is a Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy at Health Sciences University's School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. A HCPC-registered practitioner with over five years of academic experience, he leads the MSc Occupational Therapy program. His clinical background includes neurorehabilitation specialization and upper-extremity robotics for stroke patients. Research focuses on developing cognitive/metacognitive skills in students and clinicians to reduce cognitive workload. Publications emphasize neurorehabilitation, mental health interventions, and pandemic-related adaptations in occupational therapy practice. Academic credentials include a Master's in Occupational Therapy (Neurosciences) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences.
Sk Khairul Hasan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at Miami University. His research focuses on robotics, mechatronics, nonlinear control, and data-driven modeling, with particular emphasis on exoskeleton systems for human rehabilitation. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in electrical and mechanical engineering, emphasizing foundational knowledge transfer. Dr. Hasan holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (2021), an M.S. in Mechatronics Engineering from International Islamic University Malaysia (2010), and a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (2008). His research interests include exoskeleton robot design, mechatronics systems, mobile robotics, and industrial IoT. Notable projects include an 8-DOF lower extremity exoskeleton for rehabilitation, fuzzy logic controllers for hybrid vehicles, and a 3-DOF programmable manipulator arm. Recent publications highlight advancements in exoskeleton control systems, including radial basis function controllers and sliding mode control algorithms. His work bridges theoretical control strategies with practical robotic applications in healthcare and industry. Recipient of the UWM Chancellor Award for Outstanding Research (2021) Member of IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, SAE, and Institute of Engineers Bangladesh Labs/Teams: Biomechatronics System Design Laboratory.
Andrew Q. Tan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Integrative Physiology at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he directs research on neural plasticity and motor recovery. His Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Laboratory investigates rehabilitation strategies for spinal cord injury and stroke, with particular focus on locomotor recovery and robotic therapies. Tan's research examines neuroplastic mechanisms underlying recovery of walking function, employing interventions including acute intermittent hypoxia, robotic therapy controllers, and neuromodulation techniques. His work has demonstrated links between respiratory function and motor recovery post-spinal cord injury. Recognized with numerous awards including the International Society of Biomechanics Clinical Biomechanics Award and Craig H Neilsen Foundation Fellowship, Tan has developed innovative rehabilitation technologies including automated pressure-swing absorption systems for oxygen therapy. His clinical research includes randomized trials on hypoxia-induced motor recovery.
Raimund Edlinger is a research-focused academic at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Wels campus, affiliated with the Research Center Wels. He leads the Center of Excellence for Automotive/Mobility and Smart Production, with specialized focus areas in Digital Transformation, Rail Automation, Telematics, and Smart Automation and Robotics. His interdisciplinary work bridges engineering and practical robotics applications across diverse environments. Edlinger's research centers on advancing robotics for real-world challenges, particularly in GNSS-denied scenarios and hazardous environments. His expertise spans autonomous navigation, sensor fusion (LiDAR, thermal imaging, tactile systems), and human-robot interaction, with significant contributions to rescue robotics, underground mapping, and space analog missions. Recent work emphasizes digital twin applications for Mars simulations and tactile terrain assessment to enhance robot mobility in complex terrains. Analysis of his publication trends reveals a strategic shift toward multi-sensor integration for reliability in adverse conditions (e.g., smoke, narrow tunnels, Mars analogs). His 2022-2025 output shows concentrated effort in practical deployment challenges: casualty evacuation systems, nuclear disaster response, and cost-effective sensing solutions, reflecting strong industry and emergency response collaboration. His competitive robotics achievements include: 1st place EnRicH 2021 (Manipulation category) Multiple RoboCup podium finishes (2015-2022) in Rescue League and Best-in-Class Manipulation German Open championship recognitions across five consecutive years Edlinger directs significant research initiatives including the active MOBES project (Mobile Erdstall Scanner, 2025-2026), MARK Racing Team, and Autility platform development, funded by Austria's Climate and Energy Fund and ICT programs. He supervises student research while contributing to national robotics strategy through activities like ÖBFV Führungsseminar workshops on digitalization. His work is operationalized through the RRT-Roboto-Racing Team and specialized labs within Research Center Wels, featuring underground structure simulators, Mars analog testbeds, and sensor calibration facilities for extreme environments. Current projects integrate 5G communication and AI-driven manipulation for next-generation rescue systems.
Professor Hermano Krebs is a leading academic in the field of biomedical robotics and neurorehabilitation at Newcastle University. His work focuses on developing advanced robotic systems for stroke rehabilitation, gait analysis, and neuromuscular therapy. He pioneered the MIT-Skywalker and Anklebot technologies, emphasizing markerless control systems and adaptive impedance control for clinical applications. Research interests include robotic-assisted therapy protocols (e.g., RATULS trials), biomechanics of gait impairment, and tele-rehabilitation systems to address healthcare access challenges. Collaborations involve interdisciplinary teams at Newcastle and MIT, addressing stroke recovery, musculoskeletal disorders, and pediatric neurorehabilitation. Key contributions include evidence-based approaches for upper limb rehabilitation and innovative wearable devices like soft pneumatic actuators for lymphedema. His work bridges engineering and clinical practice, advancing both robotic design and therapeutic outcomes.
Dr. Bohdan Pomahac is the Frank F. Kanthak Professor of Surgery and Chief of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Yale School of Medicine. He leads the Face Transplant Program, focusing on facial reconstruction and vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA). A pioneer in face transplantation, he performed the first three full-face transplants in the U.S. and pioneered bilateral upper extremity transplants in the Northeast. His expertise spans craniofacial surgery, microsurgery, and robotic-assisted techniques. He holds appointments in Surgery and affiliated programs like the Cancer Prevention and Control Center. Education & Training: MD from Palacky University School of Medicine Residencies at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Children’s Hospital Boston Chief Resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital Research Interests: Dr. Pomahac’s research focuses on advancing VCA, perfusion technologies for tissue viability, immunosuppression strategies, and robotic microsurgery. His team explores outcomes in face/hand transplantation, post-transplant bone remodeling, and improving patient quality of life. He also investigates disparities in surgical outcomes and breast reconstruction techniques. Grants & Awards: Frank F. Kanthak Professor of Surgery (2023) Roberta and Stephen R Weiner Distinguished Chair in Surgery (2017) Medal of Honor from the President of the Czech Republic (2015) Labs & Teams: He directs Yale’s Face Transplant Program and collaborates with the Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program. His work integrates robotics, AI, and 3D printing for surgical innovation. He leads initiatives in lymphatic reconstruction and normothermic perfusion systems.
Associate Professor Munjed Al Muderis is a Clinical Professor at Macquarie University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and a Fellow of prominent surgical societies. He specializes in orthopaedic surgery focusing on hip, knee, and trauma surgery, with expertise in hip arthroscopy for femoral-acetabular impingement and trans-femoral/trans-humeral amputations using osseointegrated prosthetics. His clinical work integrates advanced technologies like computerized navigation for knee replacements and transcutaneous osseointegration for robotic limbs. Affiliations: Macquarie Medical School, NeuRA (Neuroscience Research Australia - Chair 2019) Research Interests: Osseointegration, amputation rehabilitation, prosthetic innovation, infection control in implants Notable Contributions: Pioneering transcutaneous osseointegration for complex amputations and anterior hip replacement techniques His research emphasizes prosthetic safety, long-term implant outcomes, and surgical protocols for diabetic amputees. Over 60+ publications and 3 major awards highlight his impact in advancing amputation care globally. Awards: Asia Game Changers Award (2018), Errol Solomon Meyers Memorial Lecture (2017), International Rotary Vocational Excellence Award (2019) Grants/Activities: Leadership in Osseointegration Group of Australia, collaboration on prosthetic design and infection criteria development Current projects focus on antibiotic-loaded hydrogels, single-stage surgical protocols, and osseointegration outcomes in vascular disease patients. His work bridges surgical innovation with biomechanical engineering to improve mobility and quality of life for amputees.
Jaap Harlaar is a researcher at Erasmus MC, affiliated with the Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine and the field of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. His work bridges clinical medicine and engineering, focusing on movement analysis and assistive technologies for neuromuscular conditions. His research interests lie primarily in biomechanics , rehabilitation engineering , and neuromuscular disorders , with a strong emphasis on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy . He investigates joint mechanics, passive impedance, and the development of upper limb exoskeletons and supportive devices to improve mobility and function in patients with severe muscle weakness. The recent publications reveal a consistent trend toward wearable assistive technologies , biomechanical modeling , and clinical validation of rehabilitation tools . His work integrates engineering principles with clinical needs, particularly in designing user-centered solutions for daily use in progressive neuromuscular diseases. He collaborates extensively with researchers and engineers, contributing to interdisciplinary projects in orthopedics, neurorehabilitation, and medical technology development.
Michelle Johnson is an Associate Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Pennsylvania , with a secondary appointment in Bioengineering . She serves as Director of the Rehabilitation Robotics Lab at the Perelman School of Medicine and is affiliated with Penn's GRASP Laboratory and Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics graduate group. Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering (emphasis: mechatronics, robotics, design) from Stanford University Post-doctoral NSF-NATO Fellowship at Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Italy (Advanced Robotics Technology and Systems Laboratory) Her research integrates robotics with neurorehabilitation to study upper extremity dysfunction and recovery post-brain injury. She focuses on developing affordable robotic systems for global health and mobile therapy assistants to enhance rehabilitation accessibility. Her work bridges engineering, medicine, and global health disciplines. Scientific Awards: NSF-NATO Fellowship As the head of the Rehabilitation Robotics Lab, Dr. Johnson mentors students and researchers in applying robotics to neurological recovery challenges. Her collaborations with Penn's GRASP Laboratory highlight her interdisciplinary approach to solving problems in rehabilitation medicine and assistive technology . The lab's research emphasizes translating robotic innovations into clinical practice and underserved global settings, aligning with her roles in both the Perelman School of Medicine and the Bioengineering department.
Pascal Gaillard is an Associate Professor at the University of Toulouse - Jean Jaurès, where he conducts research at the CLLE Lab (Cognition, Languages, Language, Ergonomics, UMR5263) in the "Language and Cognitive Processes" Team, while teaching in the Music Department at the National Higher Institute for Teaching and Education in Toulouse - Midi-Pyrénées (INSPE). His academic career spans over two decades, beginning as an Assistant Professor in Musicology at Université de Toulouse - Le Mirail from 1998 to 2000, before becoming an Associate Professor at the University of Toulouse since 2002. His educational background includes: PhD in Musicology and Auditory Perception (1996-2000) from Université de Toulouse - Le Mirail / Université de Paris - Jussieu Master (DEA) in Musicology - Ethnomusicology (1993-1994) from Université de Toulouse - Le Mirail Maîtrise in Musicology - Ethnomusicology (1989-1990) from Université de Toulouse - Le Mirail Licence in Musicology (1985-1989) from Université de Toulouse - Le Mirail Dr. Gaillard's research focuses on auditory perception and cognitive processes, particularly the categorization of sounds. His work spans multiple domains including musical timbre perception, speech perception in individuals with age-related hearing loss, environmental sound recognition, and auditory processing in deaf individuals with cochlear implants. He has pioneered studies on how humans organize their sound world through categorization, drawing on prototypical categorization theory developed by Rosch (1976). A key insight from his research is that auditory categorization is dynamic rather than fixed, varying according to listener needs, tasks, and action goals. His recent publications demonstrate a strong interdisciplinary approach, bridging music cognition, clinical audiology, and cognitive neuroscience. There's a clear trend toward applied research with clinical implications, particularly for deaf children with cochlear implants, as evidenced by multiple studies on humanoid robots for speech-language training. His work also shows increasing integration of computational approaches, including transfer learning for music preference prediction and ontology-based data management. Dr. Gaillard has secured numerous research grants from prestigious funding bodies including the French National Research Agency (ANR), Occitanie Regional Council, and ANSES. Current projects include "The hospital and its 'Beeps': evaluation of the hearing health of caregivers" (2025-2028), "SILENCE - Comparative acoustics: earth, planets and extreme environments" (2024-2026), and "Rehabilitation of age-related hearing loss: evolution of cognitive load in a 3D virtual environment - AgeHear" (2020-2024). He directs the "Cognition, Behavior and Use" facilities (CCU) which include specialized auditory booths for research. Since 2003, he has developed TCL-LabX, experimental software for conducting categorization studies. His research collaborations span international boundaries, working with labs in France, Canada, and the Netherlands, as well as industry partners in aeronautics and healthcare sectors.
Karthik Mani serves as Assistant Professor and Interim Program Director in the Department of Occupational Therapy within the School of Health Professions at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). Holding dual credentials from India (entry-level OT degree from The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical University) and the United States (post-professional OTD from Chatham University), he brings extensive clinical and administrative experience across international settings. As NBCOT Ambassador for Texas and Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association (FACOT), Dr. Mani bridges academic leadership with global professional advocacy. His educational foundation includes: Entry-level Occupational Therapy degree from The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R Medical University, India Post-professional Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from Chatham University, Pittsburgh Dr. Mani's research program critically examines professional issues in occupational therapy practice and education, with concentrated expertise in global workforce development, low- and middle-income country contexts, outcome measurement systems, and population health frameworks. His scholarly output spans three books, two book chapters, and nearly 30 peer-reviewed articles addressing systemic challenges in the profession. Current investigations focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in OT education, pandemic recovery strategies, and evidence-based rehabilitation protocols. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2023-2025) reveals three dominant trajectories: (1) Global workforce strategy development through mixed-methods international consultations, (2) Systematic evaluations of return-to-work interventions for traumatic brain injury and robotic stroke rehabilitation, and (3) Rigorous exploration of racial equity in OT education through survey studies of Black student experiences. His methodology portfolio prominently features systematic reviews, scoping reviews, and mixed-methods approaches addressing real-world practice dilemmas. Professional recognition includes: Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association (FACOT) NBCOT Ambassador for Texas (2021-present) As Interim Program Director for UTMB's Entry-Level OTD program, Dr. Mani mentors doctoral students while leading curriculum innovation in anatomy education using Anatomage Table technology. His administrative leadership extends to national policy through the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill implementation in India. Beyond academia, he founded the Indian Occupational Therapists Think Tank (a non-profit advancing OT in India) and owns VOTC, an OT consultation practice. Dr. Mani directs multiple initiatives including the Indian Occupational Therapists Think Tank (strengthening India's OT workforce), VOTC consultation practice (providing clinical expertise), and the Greater Houston Tamil Schools (where he serves as Pearland branch principal). These parallel commitments demonstrate his integration of professional advocacy with cultural preservation, particularly through Tamil language education for Houston-area youth.
Mehmet Erkan Kütük is an Assistant Professor at Gaziantep University, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering , where he has worked since 2021. Previously, he served as a Research Assistant at Gaziantep University from 2011 to 2015. His research focuses on robotics, control theory, and mechanical system optimization. PhD in Mechanical Engineering (2013-2019) MSc in Mechanical Engineering (2010-2013) BSc in Mechanical Engineering (2005-2010) Research Interests: He specializes in rehabilitation robotics, hybrid press mechanisms, and application of TRIZ methodology in engineering innovation. His work integrates genetic algorithms and haptic systems for mechanical design optimization. Scientific Contributions: Key areas include exoskeleton design, servo press motion control, and mechanical system simulations. Awards include the 2016 Young Delegates Grant from IFTOMM . Advised 3 thesis students Co-authored 3 textbooks and 13 research articles Managed 2 research projects
Dr. Hermano Igo Krebs is a Principal Research Scientist in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Neurology and Division of Rehabilitative Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. He has been based at MIT’s Newman Laboratory for Biomechanics and Human Rehabilitation since 1997 and is recognized as a pioneer in the field of rehabilitation robotics. Research Interests His work centers on the application of robotics to enhance, assist, and quantify rehabilitation medicine. His long-term goal is to revolutionize rehabilitation practices by integrating robotic systems into therapeutic protocols, particularly for stroke survivors. His research spans biomechanics, human movement science, and medical device engineering, with a strong translational focus. His contributions have influenced national rehabilitation guidelines, including the American Heart Association’s 2010 stroke care recommendations and the Veterans Administration’s endorsement of robotic therapy for upper extremity rehabilitation. Affiliations & Labs He is affiliated with the Newman Laboratory for Biomechanics and Human Rehabilitation at MIT and holds an adjunct professorship at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. He is also a co-founder of Interactive Motion Technologies , a startup focused on developing robotic systems for rehabilitation.
Peter Lum is a Professor of Biomedical Engineering at The Catholic University of America, where he serves as Chair of the Biomedical Engineering department. He also directs the Center for Applied Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Research at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital and holds a position as Research Health Scientist at the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Dr. Lum's research focuses on rehabilitation robotics, human motor control, and neurorehabilitation. His work includes: Developing robotic devices for rehabilitation of upper extremity function after neurological injury Studying motor learning and performance limitations in amputee populations Advancing telerehabilitation technologies Creating innovative interventions like the MIME robotic system and HEXORR (Hand EXOskeleton Rehabilitation Robot) Dr. Lum's publication record shows a strong focus on robotic rehabilitation for stroke patients and amputees. His work spans from fundamental motor control studies to clinical trials of robotic interventions. He has published extensively on upper limb rehabilitation, exoskeleton development, and the neural mechanisms underlying motor recovery after neurological injury, with his papers cited over 7,000 times. His scientific achievements include: Over $18 million in external grant funding as principal investigator or co-investigator Professor Robert Meister Distinguished Faculty Fellowship (2020) Pioneering the first controlled study demonstrating advantages of robotic arm therapy compared to conventional therapy Leadership of the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center established in 2018 with a five-year DHHS grant As an advisor, Dr. Lum has mentored 8 PhD students to completion and currently advises 3 more PhD students. His research program bridges engineering principles with clinical rehabilitation needs, translating laboratory discoveries into practical applications that improve movement function for individuals with neurological injuries.
