Robert Jarvik

Robert Jarvik is an American scientist, researcher, and entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the field of artificial organ development. He is most famous for inventing the Jarvik-7 artificial heart.

Early Life and Education

Robert Jarvik was born on May 11, 1946, in Midland, Michigan. He completed his undergraduate studies at Syracuse University, where he earned a degree in Zoology. He later pursued his medical degree at the University of Utah, where he developed an interest in artificial organ development.

Career

Jarvik's career began at the University of Utah, where he worked under the guidance of Dr. Willem Kolff, a pioneer in the field of artificial organs. During his time there, Jarvik developed the Jarvik-7 artificial heart, a device that could completely replace the function of a failing heart. The Jarvik-7 was first implanted in a human patient, Barney Clark, in 1982.

In 1987, Jarvik founded Jarvik Heart, Inc., a company dedicated to the development and commercialization of advanced medical devices, including new models of the artificial heart.

Contributions to Medicine

Jarvik's work has had a profound impact on the field of cardiology and transplant surgery. The Jarvik-7 artificial heart and its successors have saved numerous lives and have paved the way for further advancements in the field of artificial organ development.

Personal Life

Jarvik is married to Marilyn vos Savant, who was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest recorded IQ.

See Also

• Artificial heart
• Transplant surgery
• Cardiology