NJIT Alum and Trustee Chair Robert Cohen Inducted as Fellow to the National Academy of Inventors

Robert Cohen, a three-time alumnus, chair of NJIT's Board of Trustees and President of Digital, Robotics, and Enabling Technologies at Stryker, has been inducted as a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). This prestigious honor recognizes Cohen’s prolific, innovative and groundbreaking contributions to the medtech field and academia.

The NAI Fellows Program is the highest professional distinction awarded to academic inventors, celebrating those who have demonstrated a remarkable innovation, creating or facilitating outstanding inventions that have significantly impacted quality of life, economic development and societal welfare. The newest class of NAI Fellows includes inventors from 118 prestigious universities and research institutions worldwide, as well as two nobel laureates.

Cohen’s induction into the NAI is a testament to his pioneering work in orthopedic implants, materials and surgical procedures. With 26 U.S. patents to his name, his innovations have revolutionized the design and efficacy of knee and hip joint replacement implants. His notable contributions include the development of novel composite materials and enabling technologies that have significantly improved the stability, patient satisfaction, and longevity of joint implant procedures, benefiting over 4 million patients globally.

"I am deeply honored to be recognized as a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors," said Cohen. "This reflects not only my personal achievements but also the collaborative efforts and support of my colleagues at Stryker and NJIT. I remain committed to advancing orthopedic and surgical technology to improve patient outcomes and quality of life."

As President of Digital, Robotics, and Enabling Technologies at Stryker, Cohen has led numerous innovations that have set new standards in the field of orthopedic surgery. His patented technologies, such as the revolutionary designs for tibial components and polymer/metal lattice constructs, have been instrumental in reducing the need for revision surgeries and enhancing the overall success of joint replacements. Recently, his Stryker technology group was highlighted by Apple for the innovative use of its mixed-reality headset.

In addition to his technical achievements, Cohen has been a steadfast supporter of NJIT’s innovation ecosystem, inspiring faculty and students alike through his involvement in various NJIT and STEM programs. Stryker frequently participates in on-campus career fairs, colloquium and sponsors regional STEM activities — and the company now employs more than 100 NJIT alumni. 

"Robert Cohen's induction as an NAI Fellow is a well-deserved honor for his extraordinary contributions to medical technology and innovation," said Dr. Teik C. Lim, President of NJIT. "His work has not only advanced the field of orthopedic surgery but also exemplifies the spirit of innovation that NJIT strives to foster in its community, especially our alumni."

The National Academy of Inventors is a beacon of innovation and includes more than 1,800 Fellows, representing over 63,000 issued U.S. patents and generating significant economic and societal impact through licensed technologies, company formations and job creation.

For more information about the National Academy of Inventors and the 2023 class of Fellows, please visit the NAI website.