Kari Anastasia is Director of Engineering-Innovation & Product Development and focuses on leading product development activities within the institute’s Idea to Reality Center. Building from her experience as an R&D Engineer performing all aspects of product development for vascular, neurovascular devices, and permanent implants, she brings a strategic perspective on identifying potential challenges, and solutions, to accelerate product development timelines. Kari was significant contributor to the implementation of the institute’s ISO 13485 quality management system that is uniquely designed to be robust and upwards compatible with both start-ups and strategic partners. Through this system, she has brought devices all the way through Early Feasibility Clinical studies, all at the institute.
Kari received her bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering and master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University at Buffalo (UB), and sits on the Industry Advisory Council for UB’s Biomedical Engineering department. Kari is also an alumni of the prestigious WNY Prosperity Fellowship Program, that invests in entrepreneurial-minded rising stars with the goal to foster economic development and growth in the Western New York area. She volunteers with the Friends of the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter and is a member of the Buffalo Triathlon Club and Hertel Business Association.
Kari lives in Buffalo with her husband, Jake, her son, Owen and their rescue dog, Remy and in her free time enjoys skiing, biking and relaxing with family.