Dr. Tom Chau has led research into what he calls “access innovations” — technologies and techniques that allow children and youth who are non-speaking or have limited motor control to interact meaningfully with their environment. These include systems powered by brain activity, muscle twitches, vocal cord vibrations and subtle facial gestures.
“We discover the unique abilities of each child and develop technologies to cater to those strengths,” Chau said. “Whether it’s brainwaves, humming or blinking, our goal is to support each child to express themselves as a precious, unique and unrepeatable individual.”
Chau is the founder of the PRISM Lab (Paediatric Rehabilitation Intelligent Systems Multidisciplinary), a research group at Holland Bloorview. Since its launch in 2004, the lab has become a hub for applied engineering innovation and student training. His team has developed a range of groundbreaking tools, including the Hummingbird—a wearable device that translates vocal cord vibrations into switch outputs that can interface with communication devices and computers.
In addition to his research contributions, Chau currently holds the Raymond Chang Foundation Chair in Access Innovations and continues to mentor graduate students across multiple faculties at the University of Toronto.
A recent recipient of the Order of Canada, honour reflects not Chau’s scientific impact, and his long-standing commitment to empowering children with disabilities and the teams who support them is both impactful and inspiring.
“Tom’s work has reshaped how we think about commun-ication, innovation and inclusion,” said Julia Hanigsberg, president and CEO of Holland Bloorview. “His vision and deep respect for children and families have transformed lives and inspired new ways of thinking across the health-care and research systems.”
Chau’s work continues to influence not only scientific discovery, but also how communities understand and support children with disabilities.
“Every child has a really special mission that only they can achieve,” he said. “With families and clinical colleagues, our lab tries to help make that possible.”
Photo: Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
