Robert Benkowski

Robert Benkowski has a diverse work experience spanning various roles in the medical device industry. Robert started their career at MicroMed Cardiovascular, where they served as COO, Interim CEO, and Director. Robert played a key role in the development and commercialization of an implantable blood pump technology.

Following their time at MicroMed, Benkowski worked as Vice President of R&D at Emit Corporation, where they successfully obtained FDA approval for a novel blood warming device. Robert then joined MediQA, LLC as an Advisor, providing strategic consulting for companies in the medical industry.

Benkowski went on to become Vice President of Operations at Smith & Nephew Biotherapeutics (formerly Healthpoint Biotherapeutics), where they focused on advancing wound care through innovative technologies. Robert played a crucial role in the development and marketing of various wound care products.

After Smith & Nephew, Benkowski founded B-Squared Medical Device Solutions, a company dedicated to assisting clients with medical device design, development, manufacturing, and commercialization. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, they have been involved in the development of over 50 patents and has helped clients launch their products in the US, Europe, and China.

In 2014, Benkowski served as a Consultant to Evaheart, Inc., contributing to the design and prototyping of an inflow cannula. Robert also became a Board Member of Medical Innovation Collaboration of North Texas, a non-profit organization focused on research, development, and providing support for startup entities in the medical field.

In 2015, Benkowski took on the role of Managing Director at DesignPlex Biomedical LLC, a company specializing in the design and manufacturing of medical devices and instruments. Robert later became the CEO of the same company, leading their efforts in providing tools and devices for data analysis in the medical field.

Recently, Benkowski co-founded Opsin Biotherapeutics, Inc., a pain management company focused on offering non-opioid alternatives for chronic pain sufferers. Robert also joined TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine as an Assistant Professor of Medical Education, where they mentor new MD students and involves them in projects related to cardiovascular device development and optogenetics for pain management.

Throughout their career, Benkowski has demonstrated a commitment to quality, safety, and excellence in the medical device industry.

Robert Benkowski completed their Executive MBA in Leadership, Strategy, Management, and Finance from the University of Houston, C.T. Bauer College of Business between 2009 and 2011. Prior to that, they pursued a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University from 1982 to 1987.