People
At BLAST, our talent is our greatest asset. We are a diverse group of passionate inventors, researchers, and mavericks dedicated to pushing the boundaries of science and technology. Our collective expertise spans various disciplines, enabling us to tackle complex challenges and drive groundbreaking research into reality. Together, we are committed to converting research insights into real tech that makes a difference. Learn more about each lab member and their contributions to the lab here.
Meet the Team
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Tamara Carleton, PhD
LAB DIRECTOR
Dr. Tamara Carleton leads the Breakthroughs Lab with a vision for pioneering new research and smarter practices for radical innovation. With a background in innovation and strategic foresight, she is a recognized expert in the global innovation community. She oversees lab operations, fundraising, and outreach.
▶ Personal site -
William Cockayne, PhD
SENIOR TECHNOLOGIST
Dr. William "Bill" Cockayne provokes those around him to go bolder and faster. An early pioneer in virtual reality and consumer mobile experiences, he brings critical industry experience in invention, R&D processes, and technology transfer from his work in Silicon Valley and at major companies including Apple Computers. Bill is responsible for project coaching, student engagement, and the overall lab tech portfolio.
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Giulia Wally Scurati, PhD
ASSOCIATE SENIOR LECTURER
A big fan of unicorns and an extreme adrenaline junkie, Giulia is focused on making XR technologies more accessible to industry in her research. She and Tamara are the dynamite duo behind the lab’s informal Tech Social Club that aims to mix tech and fun to engage more students, especially underrepresented voices.
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Ryan Ruvald, PhD
POSTDOC FELLOW
As a postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Ryan Ruvald is exploring new frontiers in foresight engineering and the power of conceptual prototyping to support new product development. His innovative thinking and dedication is vital to our ongoing lab efforts.
▶ LinkedIn bio
Meet the Interns
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Venkata Sai Abhiram Akula
Research intern
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Madhav Sai Aryan Kothareddy
Research intern
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Vaishnavi Bojja
Research intern
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Sridhar Reddy Mekala
Research intern