The Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME) is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Milos R. Popovic, a distinguished figure in the field of biomedical engineering, as its newest director starting July 1st, 2023.
Professor Popovic’s journey at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering commenced in 2001, where he joined as an Assistant Professor. Recognizing his exceptional expertise and dedication, he was promoted to the position of Associate Professor in 2006 and subsequently achieving the esteemed rank of Professor in 2009.
Since 2018, Professor Popovic has held the esteemed position of Director at the KITE Research Institute, the renowned research arm of the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute at University Health Network. Under his guidance, the KITE Research Institute has flourished, establishing itself as a hub of innovation and advancement in the field of biomedical research and complex rehabilitation science.
In 2011, Professor Popovic exhibited his visionary thinking by co-founding the Center for Advancing Neurotechnological Innovation to Application(CRANIA) at the University of Toronto and University Health Network. This pioneering initiative has since emerged as a renowned centre of excellence, fostering groundbreaking advancements in neuomodulation, neural implants and non-invasive techniques designed to target brain pathways and devise novel therapies for patients living with neurological and mental illness disorders.
Professor Popovic’s remarkable contributions have garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. In 2008, he was honored with the Engineering Medal for Research and Development by the Professional Engineers of Ontario and Ontario Society of Professional Engineers, a testament to his groundbreaking work and its impact on the field. Furthermore, in 2011, he achieved the distinguished honour of being elected to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, solidifying his status as a revered figure within the scientific community.
Beyond his accolades, Professor Popovic’s impact is reflected in his extensive body of published work and influential presentations. He has authored 243 peer-reviewed journal papers, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge. Additionally, his expertise has been sought after globally, as evidenced by his delivery of 285 keynotes and invited presentations at prestigious conferences and symposiums. Moreover, his inventive thinking and innovative research have resulted in the filing of 21 patents/provisional patents, underscoring his dedication to transforming scientific discoveries into tangible real-world applications.
Professor Popovic’s illustrious career extends beyond academic achievements, as he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to translate scientific breakthroughs into tangible commercial products. In 2008, he co-founded MyndTec, a pioneering medical device technology company dedicated to addressing the treatment of stroke, Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), and an array of other brain-related disorders. In 2014, Dr. Popovic was named the University Health Network’s Inventor of the Year by the hospital’s Technology Development & Commercialization team.
Continuing his passion for innovation, Professor Popovic established FIBRE in 2021—an esteemed academic research platform specializing in textile-based wearable technologies. In collaboration with multiple hospitals and the esteemed University of Toronto, FIBRE aims to push the boundaries of wearable technology and its applications in the healthcare domain. This interdisciplinary endeavor combines cutting-edge research, clinical expertise, and technological advancements to revolutionize the field and enhance patient care.
“I am equal parts humbled and honoured to have been selected to serve as the Director of the Institute of Biomedical Engineering,” said Professor Popovic. “I am committed to ensuring that the Institute remains among the leading academic institutions in the BME field and doing whatever I can to nurture and support all members of the Institute.”
“I wish Milos well in his directorship journey!” said Professor Warren Chan, the previous director of BME.