The National Academy of Inventors has honored University of Michigan faculty members Robert Bartlett and Zhen Xu as fellows, recognizing their exceptional contributions to innovation. This prestigious accolade highlights their transformative research, which has led to significant advancements in healthcare technology. Announced on December 10, this recognition underscores the impact of their work on society’s pressing challenges. The fellowship is a distinguished achievement in the field of academic invention.
Bartlett, a professor emeritus of surgery, developed the life-saving ECMO technology, which provides critical cardiac and respiratory support. His pioneering research in acute kidney injury and critical care physiology has also been widely influential. Meanwhile, Xu, a professor in the College of Engineering and the Medical School, co-invented histotripsy, a cancer treatment technique that uses sound waves to break down tumors. This innovation led to the creation of HistoSonics, a U-M startup that received FDA clearance for its Edison device targeting liver tumors.
“This recognition is a testament to the profound impact Dr. Bartlett and Dr. Xu have had on improving health care and transforming patient lives,” remarked Kelly Sexton, associate vice president for research. The groundbreaking innovations of both Bartlett and Xu exemplify how academic research can address critical health care challenges, enhancing global quality of life.
The NAI Fellows Program celebrates inventors whose work has significantly advanced quality of life and economic development. Nominees must be named inventors on a U.S. patent and affiliated with an academic institution. Reviewed by a committee, nominees are invited to join the next class of fellows. “This year’s class of NAI fellows represents a truly impressive caliber of inventors,” stated Paul Sanberg, the academy’s president.
Since 2013, 15 faculty members from U-M have been recognized as NAI fellows. President Santa J. Ono was also honored in 2013 during his tenure at the University of Cincinnati.
“`
—
Read More Michigan News
