“The ability to make meaningful connections with faculty, mentors, and peers is second to none.”

I am a practicing anesthesiologist, pursuing a master’s degree in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology‘s Translational Research Program (TRP). 

For the longest time, in addition to daily practice, I have had an interest in technological medical innovations and inventions. My job focuses on using and developing new technologies for delivering and improving patient care and safety. The translational paradigm of the TRP has revolutionized my thinking in this regard.  

A key feature of the program has been to bring together faculty and students with thinkers whose expertise lies outside of my own areas of specialization. These have ranged from patent lawyers and designers to policy makers and experts in numerous other areas I typically do not interface with.  

It has been wonderful working with Steve Szigeti, for example, who has changed my view of the innovation process from a predominantly biophysical model to include design thinking and user-experience testing in order to maximize function and acceptability of innovations.

Many of the mentors in the program are at the top of their game and have been a valuable resource.  The ability to make meaningful connections with faculty, mentors, and peers is second to none. This has allowed me to develop professionally and personally.

I am now in the process of applying to patent a new airway management device. The TRP here at U of T has been outstanding in preparing me for this process.