Hugh Herr — SPARQNOW

At-a-Glance

Associate Professor at MIT Media Lab since 2004.
Directs the Biomechatronics research group and co-directs the K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics at MIT Media Lab.
Holds patents for the Rheo Knee, the world's first powered ankle-foot prosthesis.
Became the first person with a major amputation to perform in a sport on par with elite-level, able-bodied persons, using specialized prostheses he designed.
Earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Biography

Hugh Herr is an American engineer and biophysicist, currently serving as an Associate Professor at the MIT Media Lab since 2004. He directs the Biomechatronics research group and co-directs the K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, where he focuses on developing wearable robotic systems to augment human physical capability, including advanced leg prostheses and orthoses.

Born in 1964, Herr was a prodigy rock climber, acknowledged as one of the best in the United States by age 17.