Johren Carpenter
Biomedical Engineer | Accessibility Innovator
I am a biomedical engineer & researcher dedicated to designing technologies that are as thoughtful as they are functional.
Currently, I contribute to several interdisciplinary research efforts at the University of Washington. I am the design team lead for a student group with HuskyADAPT building a lightweight, adaptable chair for a child with cerebral palsy. In the Buddy Ratner Biomaterials Lab, I am researching and developing an improved shunt for the treatment of hydrocephalus. In the Restorative Technologies Lab, I am a research assistant investigating optogenetic approaches for spinal cord injury recovery.
Oh, Brother!
The most transformative part of my journey has been serving as the primary caregiver for my brother, George, who is a quadriplegic.
This role has taught me more about resilience, healthcare, and human-centered design than any classroom or lab ever could. Assisting him through the challenges of daily life—navigating inaccessible spaces, adapting technology, and advocating for better care—made the gaps in our healthcare and design ecosystems deeply personal. It pushed me to pursue biomedical engineering not as an abstract discipline, but as a way to tangibly improve lives. His experience is always in the back of my mind when I'm designing an interface, developing a device, or interpreting user feedback.
George Carpenter in a sit ski, a type of adaptive skiing equipment designed for individuals with limited mobility in their legs.
George fishing off an accessible raft made at Camp Bullwheel. George was in a commercial for this nonprofit organization.
George skating in an ice sled, being pushed by his girlfriend, Halle.
George at his college graduation after party. George graduated with his bachelor's in wildlife biology from Montana State University.
George and his girlfriend, Halle, pictured in front of a small hopper plane that they flew around Gallatin County in. George's friend, Logan, is a pilot and flew the plane for them.
Johren and George in the bathroom in their childhood home in 2016. Johren is styling George's hair and he doesn't look too happy about it.
Let's get in touch!
Thank you!