On July 1st, Dr. Azadeh Kushki and Dr. Elaine Biddiss were both promoted to Associate Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME). This promotion was based on their research excellence, teaching mandates, and community based contributions.
Dr. Azadeh Kushki is a Scientist at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto. Her research program is focused on the application of machine learning techniques to understand the neurobiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and to develop technology-based supports for children with ASD and their families. Dr Kushki’s research is highly translational with a strong focus on clinical application and commercialization. She has received over $43.6M in funding as PI, co-investigator, or collaborator, published over 40 journal articles, filed 2 patents, and developed two products currently being commercialized.
Dr. Elaine Biddiss is a research scientist at the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto. Her research is focused on creating and developing tools to improve learning outcomes in young people with disabilities. Her lab specifically integrates theoretical learnings, lived experience, and technological innovations in hospital settings. Since joining BME in 2008, she has since published 30 peer reviewed papers and raised more than $2 million in research funding.