Vijay Goel, PhD,  is a Distinguished University Professor and McMaster-Gardner Endowed Professor in Orthopedic Bioengineering.  He is known worldwide for his pioneering research in the field of spinal disorders with multiple publications and peer-recognitions, including four life-time achievement awards from four professional societies. He is also a very experienced life science business strategist and entrepreneur. He has already licensed four of his concepts to companies. He carries out various FDA-required testing for most multinational and start-up companies and is consultant to various spine companies. He is involved with the design and development of several spinal devices (cages, interspinous spacers, facet screws, for example), a novel type Ca-P cement, a biosensor for detecting infection, and a procedure for nano-coating of the spinal implants.  Collectively, with Dr. Anand Agarwal, MD, Dr. Sarit Bhaduri, and others, he has filed several patents and, at present, some of these concepts are being pursued by spinal companies.  He was the founding Co-Chair of the ASTM Committee on Spinal Implants and laid the foundation for developing the guidelines for implant evaluation. These led to the document that has been adopted by the FDA.  As Co-Director of Engineering Center for Orthopaedic Research Excellence, he manages the staff on a day-to-day basis (about 20), and handles a budget of ~$600K/per year.  He sets the directions for research and works with other staff to bring companies to the Center. He has served as Chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Iowa City, IA, and also at Toledo, giving him 10+ years of experience.  During these terms, he managed a budget of about $2 Million/year and faculty and staff of about 20, besides undergraduate and graduate students.  He directed the faculty with a roadmap for research and teaching activities.  He has served several professional societies in various capacities, including a two-term chairmanship.