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Professor Nachiappan Chockalingam, an academic researcher and consultant in the assistive technology sector, shares how his 30 years of research into assistive technology products or practices make a real impact and how working in interdisciplinary environments is the key to impactful solutions.
Describe your current role
“I’m an academic researcher and a consultant working with international organisations and commercial companies to drive research, innovation, and development. I also mentor early-career researchers and students across the UK, Malta, India, Serbia, Bosnia, Romania, and Hong Kong. It’s a global juggling act that keeps me on my toes and constantly inspired. I help turn research into reality!”
What does a typical day in your role look like?
“Typical? What’s that? I don’t have one! Honestly, no two days are alike—and that’s exactly what I love about it! Every day is different, bringing new challenges, creative ideas, and practical solutions.
“I thrive on translating my 30 years of research into products or practices that make a real impact. Whether it’s brainstorming innovations or guiding a team through problem-solving, I’m always chasing that next big idea.”
What sort of assistive technologies do you work with?
“I’m all about making movement easier and daily life more manageable for people with health conditions. My focus is on mobility and musculoskeletal support to help people stay active and independent in their daily lives. This includes orthotics (like shoe inserts, AFOs, knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs), spinal braces), prosthetics, and wheelchairs.
“I’m currently exploring simple devices, electronic or otherwise, to support people with chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or chronic pain. We have completed a major project in this space and currently in the process of commercialisation. If it helps someone move or live better, I’m all in.”
Who do you work with?
“It’s a big mix! I collaborate with a wide range of organisations. My main base is in academia, but I also work closely with small and medium enterprises and consult for major global brands. Additionally, I support NGOs and non-profits or charities by helping train professionals, create educational programmes, and spread patient awareness. It’s a true blend of research, practice, and community engagement.”
What do you like most about your role?
“The magic happens when different minds come together! I thrive in interdisciplinary environments. I get to collaborate with clinical professionals, engineers, scientists, and even policymakers. I’m involved in every stage—helping ideas take root, nurturing them, and seeing them grow into impactful solutions. Some have even gone on to bear real, life-changing “fruit.”
“Plus, I’m big on cultural competency in clinical management and the provision of health services. Working with people from diverse backgrounds fuels my passion and makes everything more rewarding. I love seeing the people I work with grow, too.”
Are there any challenges that you face?
“Challenges are a given—sometimes it’s about limited resources or convincing others of a new idea. For me, resource limitations—whether it’s time, funding, or materials—are often the biggest hurdle.
“But I’ve learned that collaboration is key. By partnering with the right people and taking a team-based approach, you can overcome obstacles and create win-win scenarios. When everyone buys in, pooling resources becomes much easier, and progress follows.”
Tips and tricks for getting into the role?
“No secret hacks! Curiosity is your best friend! Stay curious, ask questions, and don’t settle for surface-level answers. It’s what led me to research and academia, and through my students, colleagues, and collaborators, I’ve kept that flame alive.
“If you’re young and enthusiastic, keep asking questions and stay curious about the world. Most importantly, understand the difference between what people want and what they need. Once you get that, you’ll be able to create meaningful, impactful solutions. Keep that curiosity alive, and you’ll be unstoppable!”
