Malene Missel

Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition

Papers

Total Citations

131

H-Index

About

Malene Missel is a leading researcher in the field of robotic exoskeletons, with a primary focus on assistive mobility and human-robot interaction. Her most influential work centers on the development of the IHMC Mobility Assist Exoskeleton, a groundbreaking robotic suit designed to provide strength augmentation and gait generation for individuals with lower extremity paralysis. This first-generation prototype, detailed in her highly cited 2009 paper (131 citations), successfully demonstrated the potential to restore walking ability in users with complete paralysis, marking a pivotal contribution to rehabilitation robotics. Missel’s research has directly advanced the practical application of wearable robotics, bridging the gap between theoretical design and real-world assistive technology. Her work has been instrumental in shaping how exoskeletons can be used for both medical rehabilitation and strength enhancement, earning her recognition as a key innovator in the field. Through her efforts, Missel has helped lay the foundation for future generations of mobility aids that promise to improve the quality of life for people with mobility impairments.