Women's History Month: An Interview with Dr. Fleur Tehrani, FNAI
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ANAHEIM, Calif. - Californer -- NAI Fellow Dr. Fleur Tehrani is a visionary leader in biomedical engineering and a distinguished innovator in her field. A prolific inventor and researcher, Dr. Tehrani is the sole inventor on 13 U.S. and foreign patents, with two of her inventions licensed to industry and now used in practice worldwide. Her innovations include metabolic rate monitors and multiple respiratory assist devices, including the Adaptive Support Ventilation system — one of the world's most advanced respiratory control systems. Read below as she discusses what inspires her to be an inventor, the importance of STEM education, and more!

Q: What words would you use to describe yourself?
A: Inventor, Researcher, Educator, Poet

Q: What inspired and continues to inspire you to be an inventor?
A: When I do my research work, I see something is missing and can be done better.

Q: Why are you passionate about being an innovator?

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A: Without innovation, there can be no progress.

Q: What do you love to do in your spare time besides working in your field?
A: I write poetry, and I spend time with my family.

Q: What advice do you have for innovators looking to take their innovations from bench to market?
A: Do not publicly disclose your invention until you file at least a provisional patent application.

Q: What do you feel is the value of STEM education, especially for young innovators?
A: STEM education is essential for developing the necessary skills, including critical thinking, to prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Q: What do you feel about the importance of diverse perspectives in creating innovations that benefit society?
A: People with diverse backgrounds have innovative skills. Human progress can best be achieved by considering a diverse population's different viewpoints and innovations.

Q: What advice would you give your younger self, or young innovators, pursuing a research and/or innovation career?
A: Do not be deterred by some obstacles ahead. Use your innovation skills and knowledge, and do what you can and what you think is right.

Dr. Tehrani was inducted as an NAI Fellow in 2016. To read more about Dr. Tehrani and her work, visit: https://www.drfleurtehrani.com/