Michael Hardisty

Dr. Michael Hardisty’s research integrates the frontiers of computer vision, machine learning, and biomechanics to revolutionize image-guided therapies and diagnostics for spine, musculoskeletal and oncological applications. His innovative approach combines physical and physiological systems with cutting-edge computational, data-driven and experimental methods in 3 main foci.

1. Developing ML-enabled technology for image guided therapy in the spine
2. Predicting patient outcomes with quantitative MSK imaging biomarkers derived from computer vision algorithms
3. Predicting bone biomechanical stability and damage using tissue biomechanics with ML biological system modelling, integrating multi-scale: imaging, clinical and biological data

Dr. Hardisty’s work combining imaging, tissue and blood biomarkers, and physics-based modelling with a strong focus on translation will have a transformational impact on surgical planning and teaching and how treatments are directed in spine, plastic and orthopaedic surgery. Dr. Hardisty has strong clinical and commercial collaborations that allow his group to translate innovations out of the lab and into technology that can impact the future of health care.

Education:

• BASc, 2004 Engineering Science: Concentration in Biomedical, University of Toronto – Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• MASc, 2006, Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto – Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• PhD, 2012, Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis – Davis, California, USA

Appointments and Affiliations:

• Scientist, Holland Bone and Joint Research Program, Physical Sciences Platform, Sunnybrook Research Institute
• Assistant Professor, Division of Orthopaedics, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto
• Assistant Professor, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto