Dr. Ellen Roche

Professor

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Biography

Ellen Roche is the Abby Rockefeller Mauzé Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she also serves as the Associate Department Head. She received her Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from the National University of Ireland Galway, followed by a Master's degree in Bioengineering from Trinity College Dublin. She completed her PhD at Harvard University, focusing on new approaches to cardiac device design. Ellen's research interests lie at the intersection of mechanical and biological systems, specifically in the design and development of implantable medical devices that enhance or assist native function. Her work often employs soft robotics and biomaterials to create innovative therapeutic strategies for tissue repair. She has led multidisciplinary collaborations to design devices such as light-reflecting catheters and bioinspired cardiac simulators, aimed at improving outcomes for patients with cardiovascular challenges. Ellen's significant contributions to the field have garnered numerous awards, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) and the NSF CAREER Award.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Cambridge, Massachusetts

Leading research and education in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, focusing on the design and development of medical devices.

Awards

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Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE)

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Harold E. Edgerton Faculty Achievement Award

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NSF CAREER Award

Patents

Biomimetic actuation device system, methods controlling biomimetic actuation device system

US10058647B2 2018-09-04

Patent covering a system and methods for controlling a biomimetic actuation device.

Catheter Device Transmitting Reflecting Light

10,588,695

Patent related to a catheter device that utilizes light reflection.