STEM Innovator-in-Residence Program Launches with Spotlight on Medical Device Innovation

On April 9, more than 50 students, faculty and staff gathered for an interactive presentation by STEM Innovator-in-Residence, Brandon Shuman, an accomplished medical device developer with nearly three decades of industry experience and over 50 patents to his name. As part of the College of Science and Engineering’s Innovator-in-Residence (IIR) program, Shuman’s talk—Innovation: From Unmet Needs to New Life-Changing Technologies—offered insights into the journey from a simple idea to a fully realized, market-ready device.

Shuman underscored the importance of identifying unmet needs, collaborating across disciplines and embracing “fail fast” prototyping—quickly testing and learning from early failures—to manage risks early. He walked attendees through the stages of medical device innovation, from concept evaluation and intellectual property generation to regulatory approval and final product launch. Shuman explained how innovators translate bold visions into tangible solutions that improve patient outcomes—whether by refining device ergonomics, reducing unwanted noise or integrating advanced imaging technologies.

About the Innovator-in-Residence Program

The College of Science and Engineering STEM Innovators-in-Residence are local experts in innovation who are available to meet with SU faculty, students and staff to advise on research, projects and ideas to help boost innovation capacity and foster partnerships. IIRs like Shuman serve as ad hoc resources providing expertise and guidance on innovation research, product development, intellectual property, product development and resources. Students and faculty are also encouraged to visit Shuman during his weekly office hours to discuss their ideas, product development strategies or potential pitch competition opportunities.

Read more about the IIRs and request to connect with them here.

Don’t Miss the Next IIR Event!

The next IIR event will take place on April 25 and features Adam Philipp, founder of AEON Law, who will discuss patents and intellectual property strategy. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a research-minded student, you will learn the benefits of patents to protect and commercialize your ideas.

The College of Science and Engineering invites all students, faculty and staff interested in innovation to join these sessions, explore entrepreneurship-related coursework and connect with the IIRs for guidance on bringing transformative ideas to life.