Kevin Otto, PhD
Head and professor of biomedical engineering, Purdue University, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering
Date: Friday, March 6
Time: 9–9:50 a.m.
Location: SCOB 228
Faculty host: Rebecca Wachs
Abstract
Direct interfacing of micro-devices with the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves has the potential to transform the treatment of neurological disease and injury. Successful, long-term information transfer depends critically on the quality of the device–tissue interface. While implanted electrodes enable powerful new capabilities in neuromodulation and sensing, they continue to face challenges in chronic reliability. These challenges are amplified as electrode sites shrink to achieve higher-fidelity neural interfaces. In this talk, we highlight our neuroengineering efforts at the intersection of device design and performance, with applications spanning sensory restoration, pain management, learning enhancement and bioelectronic medicine for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
Biosketch
Kevin Otto is the Dane A. Miller Head of the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University, where he leads one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic biomedical engineering programs. He is focused on advancing research, education and innovation while fostering a collaborative and inclusive community. Under his leadership, the Weldon School is expanding its impact across Indiana, including the launch of its Indianapolis presence, and strengthening its global reputation for excellence in biomedical engineering.
Otto’s research centers on neural engineering, with emphasis on device–tissue interfaces, neurostimulation and bioelectronic medicine. His work spans fundamental science through clinical translation, contributing to patents, commercialization efforts and clinical trials. He is deeply committed to mentorship and has trained postdoctoral researchers, graduate students and undergraduates who now hold leadership roles in academia, industry and government.
Prior to returning to Purdue as head, Otto served as a professor and senior associate chair in the J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Florida. He received his training at Arizona State University and the University of Michigan, where he developed expertise in brain–machine interfaces, sensory neuroprostheses and cochlear implants. With more than 28 years of experience in neural engineering, Otto has secured over $15 million in research funding as principal investigator or co-PI, published 76 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters (h-index 36) and holds three issued U.S. patents. He is a fellow of AIMBE and BMES and serves on multiple editorial boards spanning bioengineering, neurotechnology and bioelectronic medicine.
His guiding principle is simple: Through small steps and giant leaps, engineering can help build a healthier, more hopeful future.
