Stephen Sprigle
Professor - Bioengineering, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering
Contact
Stephen Sprigle
Professor - Bioengineering, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering
Education
Masters of Physical Therapy, Oct 1998, Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Georgia State License #PT007574
Doctor of Philosophy, May 1989, University of Virginia (Biomechanics)
Master of Science, May 1985, University of Virginia (Biomedical Engineering)
Bachelor of Science , Dec 1982, University of Florida (Engineering Science & Mechanics)
Biography
Stephen Sprigle is a Professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology, holding joint appointments in the School of Industrial Design and the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering. He also serves as a program faculty member in the Interdisciplinary Bioengineering Graduate Program.
Sprigle's unique background combines a Ph.D. in Biomechanics and an M.E. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Virginia, an MSPT in Physical Therapy from Mercy College, and a B.S. in Engineering Science & Mechanics from the University of Florida. As a biomedical engineer and licensed physical therapist, he directs the Rehabilitation Engineering and Applied Research Lab (REAR Lab), focusing on applied disability research and development. His research interests encompass the biomechanics of wheelchair seating and posture, pressure ulcer prevention, manual wheelchair propulsion, and the design of assistive and diagnostic technologies.
Sprigle's career spans both academic and clinical settings, including roles at Helen Hayes Hospital, Columbia University, the State University of New York at Buffalo, and the University of Virginia. At Georgia Tech, he has served in various capacities, including as Director of the Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access and Interim Chair of the School of Industrial Design. Throughout his career, Sprigle has consistently bridged the gap between engineering, design, and healthcare, contributing significantly to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through innovative research and development in assistive technologies.
Statement of Teaching Interest
Professor Sprigle teaches design-related courses in industrial design and mechanical engineering. These courses explore human-centered design, rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology, and new product development. He emphasizes the role of human factors and ergonomics in the design process and highlights the creation of technologies for people with disabilities. Through this work, students gain a deeper understanding of human functional differences—insight that will benefit them in any profession they pursue.
Statement of Research Interest
Professor Sprigle’s research centers on rehabilitation engineering and applied disability science. As a bioengineer and licensed physical therapist, he integrates rehabilitation engineering into both clinical practice and everyday life. His work spans experimental research as well as research and development initiatives. Professor Sprigle’s interests include the biomechanics of wheelchair seating and posture, pressure ulcer prevention, standardized wheelchair and cushion testing, and assistive technology design.