Natalie TANCZAK

Natalie is a PhD researcher in the Connected Rehabilitation Technology and Assistive Devices research module of the Future Health Technologies (FHT) programme at SEC. Her research looks at user-centered design and the evaluation of wearable robotics for neurorehabilitation.

Natalie worked as a research assistant at Queen’s University (Kingston). There, she developed new testing apparatuses to assess the mechanical properties of new prosthetic foot prototypes. Following her Master’s degree at the University of Strathclyde, Natalie furthered her research looking at silicone additive manufacturing techniques to develop prosthetic interface liners with customizable soft-tissue control properties.

Inspired by her exposure to Able Sail (an adaptive sailing program) as a child, one of Natalie’s long term goals is to minimize both the physical and financial barriers associated with adaptive sports programs for children.

Natalie makes an effort to tie her research into cost-effective and sustainable solutions; ultimately maximizing the number of individuals that can benefit from the technology.

Education

• MSc Biomedical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Scotland
• BASc Mechanical Engineering (Specializing in Biomechanics), Queen’s University, Canada