Eric Perreault Named CEO of Morgridge Institute for Research

Northwestern Engineering’s Eric Perreault has been named the new CEO of the Morgridge Institute for Research. Perreault, who has served the University in numerous capacities, will step into his role with Morgridge in early 2027. 

Based in Madison, Wisconsin, the Morgridge Institute is an independent biomedical research organization closely affiliated with the University of Wisconsin–Madison, with the purpose of advancing frontiers across biomedical research to improve human health. Perreault will lead a team of 24 investigators and nearly 200 additional members with expertise in biomedical sciences, engineering, science communication, ethics, and public engagement.

“Eric’s commitment to fearless science, interdisciplinary discovery, and serving our public and scientific communities makes him an inspiring choice to lead Morgridge into its next decade,” said Jacquelyn Fredrick, chair of the Morgridge Institute board. “What an important moment for the Morgridge Institute. We are delighted to bring Eric to Wisconsin.”

A member of the Northwestern faculty since 2002, Perreault was a professor of biomedical engineering at the McCormick School of Engineering and professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the Feinberg School of Medicine. He was Northwestern’s vice president for research from 2023 to 2026. Previously he served as associate dean for research administration and oversight at McCormick, and as chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering.

Perreault’s research examines the neural and biomechanical factors involved in the normal control of multi-joint movement and posture, and how these factors are modified following neuromotor pathologies such as stroke and spinal cord injury. Using experiments, computer simulations, and machine learning, the research goal is to advance understanding of motor control to guide rehabilitation strategies and assistive technologies for individuals with motor impairments.