In Memoriam: Edward F. Leonard, Adjunct Professor at the ZMPBMT and the ZBF
Sadly, Edward Leonard, professor emeritus at Columbia University and adjunct professor at the Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering as well as the Center for Biomedical Research, passed away on August 30, 2026, in New York at the age of 95.
Prof. Leonard was professor of chemical engineering and biomedical engineering and first met our group at conferences on artificial organs. In 2001, as a professor at Columbia University, he decided to spend a sabbatical semester with us on a Fulbright Fellowship—a great honor for our research groups. During that time, he conducted research here on muscle perfusion and stimulation and even developed his own experimental setup for this purpose.
He enjoyed his time with us, in Vienna, and in the classical Viennese music scene so much that, in the years that followed, he and his wife returned time and again to spend several months with us and eventually even bought an apartment in Vienna.
Through his contributions and advice, Prof. Leonard introduced many valuable ideas and approaches and advanced our research and academic work not only in the field of cardiac support but also in cardiovascular remodeling. Ultimately, he was very open to new technologies and supported us in scientifically classifying 3D printing as a key new technology. At the same time, he and his wife, Sheri Leonard, were extremely friendly and sociable. Whether at private gatherings, music events, hikes—including a mountain trek to the Dachstein Glacier (without a cable car!)—or on long bike rides, they maintained close contact with many of us, a bond that lasted until the very end.
Even at very advanced age, Prof. Leonard remained remarkably strong and optimistic, and was already planning his next visit to Vienna. We deeply mourn his passing, are very grateful for the wonderful quarter-century we spent together, and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.
H. Bergmeister, W. Drexler, U. Losert, F. Moscato, B. Podesser, H. Schima
