Michael Kasman is a Robotics PhD student in Mechanical Engineering where he develops flexible robotic systems for fetal and minimally invasive surgery. His research focuses on continuum robotics, teleoperation, intraoperative guidance, and the integration of robotic and optical imaging technologies to improve surgical performance, particularly for procedures such as Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) treatment. He also has experience developing virtual reality simulators for surgical training and skill assessment. His work has been recognized with a Young Investigator Award from the International Society for Medical Innovation and Technology (iSMIT).
Michael is interested in translating emerging technologies from research into real-world applications and has participated in entrepreneurial programs including Texas Health Catalyst and Texas Biodesign. His team in Texas Health Catalyst was recognized with the Trailblazer Award for the most creative and novel solution. Through Discovery to Impact, he hopes to gain experience in technology commercialization, industry partnerships and business development. His long-term goal is to pursue entrepreneurship in surgical robotics and help bring promising medical technologies from proof-of-concept to clinical use.