Mission
Our mission is to improve health, mobility and independence for individuals with physical disabilities, and to enhance human performance and well-being through advances in movement science and assistive technology. We perform research on a range of topics, from biomechanics of human movement to developing prosthetic limbs, exoskeletons, exosuits, wearables, and smart clothing. The Zelik Lab is housed within Vanderbilt CREATE (Center for Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology).
Graphical Summary of What We Do in CREATE
Approach
We perform experimental and computational research on human movement by combining techniques and knowledge from engineering, biomechanics, bio-signal analysis, neuromotor control and clinical practice. Our interdisciplinary research is performed directly alongside clinical doctors — many of whom have offices within short walking distance of our lab — and in collaboration with other engineers and scientists. We perform research in our state-of-the-art motion analysis lab and out in the real-world. Research projects in our lab range from designing, building and testing wearable assistive devices to developing new experimental approaches for assessing the biomechanics of movement to conducting computational simulations to better understand principles underlying human locomotion.
Culture
Collaborative, inclusive, interdisciplinary, curiosity-driven, hard-working, superhero-inspired, supportive of risk/failure/success inside the lab and enjoying life outside the lab, and perhaps a little goofy at times…