MIT chancellor receives University of Regina Lifetime Achievement Award

Posted: September 29, 2011 10:15 a.m.

Dr. Eric Grimson BSc'75 (High Honours) receives 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dr. Eric Grimson BSc'75 (High Honours) receives 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award. Adam Hunger Photography

Critically-ill patients undergoing surgery and thousands of students are among the many that have benefited from University of Regina alumnus Dr. Eric Grimson's love of research and teaching. Grimson, who was appointed chancellor earlier this year at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has worked to develop computer systems that can be used to analyze images and infer information about them. One use of this technology is the analysis of medical images.

"Our systems build detailed, three-dimensional models of patient-specific anatomy, which are then used to provide surgeons with guidance during surgery," said Grimson. "This enables minimally invasive neurosurgical procedures, in which the surgeon operates through a small opening, yet accurately and safely reaches and removes a tumor."

Grimson says it is extremely satisfying to know that the research he and his graduate students have done has been used in hundreds of neurosurgical cases, enabling surgeons to complete procedures in less time, with less collateral damage, and with improved patient outcomes.

 Prior to his appointment as chancellor, Grimson built his career at MIT as a faculty member and was the Bernard Gordon Professor of Medical Engineering and head of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. As a teacher, he focused on undergraduate education, in particular introductory courses in computer science.

In his 27 years as a faculty member, Grimson taught more than 10,000 students, supervised close to 50 PhD students and was awarded the Bose Award for Excellence in Teaching in the School of Engineering at MIT. He says this aspect of his work, whether it's been offering advice on career paths, making students aware of the exciting opportunities in science and technology or development of new curriculum, has given him great satisfaction.

Grimson credits his years at the University of Regina and the mentorship provided by some of the faculty members he encountered, with helping him grow intellectually and providing him the confidence needed to succeed at MIT.

"I was fortunate to have a set of inspiring faculty members who encouraged me to aim high, provided me with opportunities, and fostered a strong sense of tackling challenging situations by reasoning from basic principles," said Grimson.

Grimson will receive the 2011 Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the University of Regina and the University of Regina Alumni Association, which recognizes an alumnus who has distinguished himself or herself on a regional, national or international basis.

Grimson will be one of five distinguished alumni who will be honoured at the 7th Annual Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards Gala, the pinnacle event of the Alumni Homecoming Weekend taking place September 29 - October 1.

To purchase tickets and for more information visit: www.uregina.ca/alumni/acaa-event or call 1-877-779-4723.