Two Minutes with ...

Gary Mirka

 

“I’m interested in understanding how we can design workplaces to reduce the risk of injury of the people who have to function there.”

Commitment to the body of work
With an extensive background in biomechanics and the application of workplace solutions to physically demanding jobs, Professor Gary Mirka is ready for some heavy lifting of his own as the new chair of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering. Mirka’s research investigates how the body works and becomes injured at work, with a focus on musculoskeletal injuries to the back, shoulder, and wrist.

Crab boats in Iowa   
Commercial crab fishing is the subject of Mirka’s current research, which adds an interesting wrinkle to his recent move from North Carolina. Transferring his laboratory equipment was simply a matter of logistics, but there’s a notable lack of seacoast in Iowa. Fortunately, he had already done some fieldwork and is analyzing the data by computer.

Stress reduction
Reducing ergonomic stresses on industrial workers requires well-engineered techniques that reflect the capabilities and limitations of the human body. Mirka’s goal is to decrease job-related injuries. He studies what goes wrong—in everything from furniture assembly to hefting crab pots—recommends new methods and routines, and documents the results.

From performance to analysis
Mirka’s interest in biomechanics stemmed from his career as a shot put and discus thrower at The Ohio State University, and on any given weekend he may be found hurling stones and cabers at a Highland Games competition.

 

---