Joseph Papp

Background

About Joseph Papp

An interest in the sciences has strongly influence my life and career. I have used an ability to think creatively as an advantage in engineering and problem solving. This spirit of innovation and creative thinking was demonstrated in my graduate work at the IIT Fluid Dynamics Research Center with the design and development of a high speed flow visualization system using a laser as an illumination source. Successfully employing a laser for schlieren photography was unusual and flew in the face of the advice of those more experienced than myself. However, the system not only captured turbulent fluid features but was able to visualize acoustic waves with an exposure time of 6 billionths of a second. I also had the privilege to become one of the first researchers to use MEMS actuators to input and amplify jet shear layer disturbances under a research grant from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). After graduation I joined Abbott Laboratories for an opportunity to do hands-on, cutting edge work with semiconductor lasers and other technology for the purpose of transdermal glucose monitoring. This technology led me to become involved with several small spin-off companies outside of Atlanta to continue the innovative transdermal work, not only for monitoring but for insulin delivery as well. This work culminated in a series of patents related to the creation of transient microscopic pores in human skin for bloodless interstitial fluid sampling and drug delivery. In the intervening years, I have applied my creative engineering skills to a wide range of disciplines and industries. I take pride in an ability to succeed where others have failed. I combine my problem solving skills with passion and determination to accomplish seemingly insurmountable tasks. So often I see professionals reach negative conclusions because it is the easiest pathway. Ultimately the most rewarding pathway is to find elegant and creative solutions to difficult problems.