07 Aug 2025 ITHS EXPO and Symposium Lightning Talks: People Behind the Innovations
At the 2025 ITHS EXPO and Symposium, alongside keynote speakers and an in-depth panel discussion with ITHS leadership, attendees had the opportunity to hear from several research professionals showcasing their groundbreaking work addressing and solving real-world health concerns. From preeclampsia and coronary disease to dental implants, each speaker shared insights into both the breakthroughs and challenges they encountered while moving their work from lab into tangible real-world solutions. Captured below are the lightning talks detailing incredible scientific innovations.
Dr. Steven Shen, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Washington and founder of Quiver Dental Inc
Quiver: A Dental Implant Stability Analyzer
Dr. Shen introduced a new device that measures the stability of dental implants that relies on physical principles to measure stability by using motion-sensor technology. This device aims to reduce the guess work and potential procedural risk by providing dentists with more reliable data that could make dental implant procedures safer and eventually become the standard resource in dental care.
Dr. Cheri Fang, Senior Research Scientist in Bioengineering at the University of Washington
Diagnosing Severe Preeclampsia: A Blood Test Paving the Way for Prediction
Dr. Fang presented her team’s work on a blood test that could detect severe preeclampsia in early stages of pregnancy. By measuring key functional proteins in vascular development, specifically targeting the biomarker Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor (VEGFR), Dr. Fang’s team aims to offer a non-invasive method to identify patients at risk prior to the onset of symptoms. This early detection process could significantly reduce the complications experienced by both the mother and child and pave the path to better pregnancy care.
Aman Garg, Research Engineer in Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington
Nimble Surgical: Metamaterial Catheters for Safer and Effective Cardiovascular Procedures
Through his project Nimble Surgical, Garg introduced the development of a flexible catheter that could simplify coronary procedures and reduce the current associated risks. Designed to give cardiologists greater control during stenting procedures, the flexible catheter reduces dislocation and maintains blood flow while making these procedures safer by reducing risk and complication.
Dr. Rodney Ho, Executive Director of WE-REACH
WE-REACH
Dr. Ho reflected on the impact of the WE-REACH program in accelerating healthcare innovations from early-stage products to clinical applications. He emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative environment to support researchers with mentorship, funding, and training – helping to bring their ideas into real-world solutions. By creating this type of supportive ecosystem, WE-REACH aims to support researchers in accelerating scientific innovation to address significant health challenges.
