01
Swarthmore College (B.S. Engineering, 1988)
As a Thomas J. Watson Fellow, he spent a year
in the Indian subcontinent studying philosophy and learning Hindi.
02
Queen’s University, Ontario
(M.S. Mechanical Engineering, 1991)
His master’s research developed non-invasive methods to estimate the kinematic integrity of the wrist.
03
Stanford University
(Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, 1997)
At Stanford, he created a realistic biomechanical model of the human fingers to predict optimal coordination of finger muscles.
04
Academic Appointments
After completing his doctorate, he served as a research associate and lecturer at Stanford University and later joined Cornell University. In 2007, he joined USC’s Department of Biomedical Engineering and was promoted to full professor in 2011.
Strength-Dexterity Test
His method for assessing hand function has been applied to adults with disabilities and children and inspired devices to measure leg function.
Robotics and AI for Rehabilitation
ValeroLab combines robotics, biomechanics and artificial intelligence to create technologies that support human function, including an AI-controlled robotic limb.
Portable Neuromuscular Training Systems
The Springturn device continues this legacy by providing a compact system that measures strength and neuromuscular control while challenging users with unstable loads.
National Academy of Inventors (NAI)
In 2023, he was elected a Senior Member of the NAI for innovations that benefit society.
Institute of Electrical
and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
He is a Senior Member of the IEEE.
American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE)
He is an elected fellow.
National Advisory Board on Medical Rehabilitation Research
He was elected to the National Institutes of Health’s advisory board in 2021.
Honorary Doctorate from Swarthmore College (2017)
Recognizing his contributions to engineering and science.
