Dr. Mickey Ising Named Outstanding Young Bioengineer for 2020

2020 Outstanding Young Bioengineer Award Winner Dr. Mickey Ising

By Holly Hinson

For Mickey Ising,MD, his Masters of Engineering degree from Speed School in 2010 became the starting line for a career that has earned kudos at every turn. The physician has been named Outstanding Young Bioengineer for the 2020 Speed School Alumni Awards.

Named Speed School’s Outstanding Graduate Student, Ising decided to combine his love for engineering and medicine. “When I started at University of Louisville, I never imagined I’d become a physician. However, I was fortunate to obtain a co-op where I worked under a group of cardiothoracic surgeons and bioengineers developing cardiac assist devices,” said Ising. “It was inspiring to see the potential of combining the skillsets of physicians and engineers. Ultimately, that led me to medical school and eventually cardiac surgery.”

During Dr. Ising’s 15 years at UofL, he was a member of the Advanced Heart Failure Research Program at the Cardiovascular Innovation Institute developing and testing ventricular assist devices. His efforts have resulted in over 40 publications and conference presentations. Both the cardiothoracic surgery and medical communities have recognized his exceptional body of work by awarding him The American Society of Artificial Internal Organ’s Young Innovator Fellowship, Southern Thoracic Surgical Association’s James W. Brooks MedicalStudent ScholarshipandSociety of Thoracic Surgeons’ Looking to the Future Award. He was one of 21 graduating medical students honored with the American Medical Association’s Physician of Tomorrow Award.

Ising said he credits Speed School for helping him develop a foundation of leadership skills. “The Department of Bioengineering was new when I started at UofL, and we were actively engaged in the evolution of the department during its infancy. The experience taught me the importance of taking ownership in programs I am involved in. It is imperative to continue to innovate so that it is better for those that follow.”

After completing general surgery training in 2021, Ising will begin a cardiac surgery fellowship at University of Virginia, one of the premier training programs in the country.

“To be chosen as the Young Outstanding Bioengineer is truly an honor,” said Ising. “The award is also a reflection of the opportunities my mentors gave me. My achievements would not have been possible without their mentorship and guidance.”