People

Creating a culture of innovation depends directly on the individuals who work at SRI. More than 1,400 employees worldwide provide the innovative thinking and technology leadership that sets SRI apart. Here's a chance to meet some of our team and learn why they joined SRI - you may discover that you would like to join the team, too. Visit Careers @ SRI for descriptions of current openings.

Meet . . .Roy Kornbluh

Title:
Senior Research Engineer, Engineering & Systems Division

Day in the Life @ SRI:
My daily routine includes a mixture of lab work, project leadership and program development. One minute I am running to the lab for some quick tests or experiments with a new artificial muscle device. Another minute I am preparing a report or presentation for a client or potential client. Sometimes there is a brainstorming or kickoff meeting to invent new applications or devices (and sometimes free pizza!). Many co-workers filter in and out of my office and lab during the day to discuss progress on individual projects and new ideas. For a break, I will get a good game of doubles volleyball going.

I also travel to conferences and companies quite a bit as a spokesperson for the artificial muscle technology that we have been working on for the last several years. I have been to Japan, Europe and all over the United States, especially the DC area.

Before SRI:
It is the only real job I ever had. I was a day camp counselor in my teens. I was an intern at General Electric Gas Turbine and a research assistant in grad school. I did leave SRI to join the Peace Corps, and I worked as a water and sanitation consultant in Ecuador. Don't forget to wash your hands!

Academics:
BS in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University and an SM in Mechanical Engineering from MIT.

Why SRI?
In a word - freedom. You can invent your own future here (to paraphrase the SRI motto). That's why I came back. Also,there are a lot of really smart folks here who make me look good.

Away from the Office:
Volleyball, hiking, biking, hang gliding, taijiquan, guitar, tutoring ESL and recently at SRI . . . dancing.

Languages:
English, Spanish

Proudest Accomplishment:
When I was in junior high school I balanced on my hands for two minutes and broke the school record.

Words of Wisdom for New SRI Team Members:
Don't forget to relax and smell the artificial roses but don't aim too low. Explore the freedom and use the resources that are available at SRI. Join and use the SRI Fitness Center and its climbing wall.

Best Read, Favorite Flick, Favorite Links:
I like tales of self-discovery and small-scale adventure like "Blue Highways." I love the tortured soul who is forced to fight for justice in "Billy Jack." I get a kick out of the banter in Kevin Smith movies and of course no one can deny the comic genius of "Stripes." My favorite link is www.thehungersite.com. One click and you donate two cups of rice. Do it right now!