Merlijn Smits

Merlijn Smits is an associate professor at the department of Industrial Design at the Saxion University of Applied Sciences. Merlijn has a background in Industrial Design and Philosophy of Technology and a PhD in healthcare design. With these specializations, she studies how to responsibly design for healthcare, optimally meeting the needs and values of all stakeholders involved. Merlijn is also a member of the supervisory board of Gelderse Vallei hospital in Ede, where she takes care of innovation and safety and quality of healthcare.

In this project, Merlijn will safeguard the human-centered design process of the Holland Hybrid Heart, ensuring that all stakeholders are being heard.