Riley Ellingsen

Innovation Fellow

A native of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Riley attended Whitman College where he earned a B.A. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology (BBMB) before moving to South Bend to continue his education at the University of Notre Dame, where he earned an M.S. in Engineering, Science, and Technology Entrepreneurship (ESTEEM).

Riley previously worked as an Ocular Laboratory Technician for an eye bank in New York City and as a Research Assistant at Washington State University, where he helped characterize the biochemical pathways involved in sleep regulation. He is passionate about the intersection of health sciences, innovative technologies, and entrepreneurship. While at Notre Dame, he co-founded two startups including his current venture, heARsight, which is developing innovative accessibility technology for individuals who are d/Deaf and hard of hearing.

He has always enjoyed work that makes a tangible impact on his communities, which is what drew him to enFocus. He looks forward to continuing to build heARsight while also working on projects with enFocus that contribute to growing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region and supporting innovation projects within local organizations and institutions.

Outside of work, Riley enjoys hiking, cycling, skiing, and playing tennis. He loves experiencing new places and activities–and he’s looking forward to further exploring the South Bend - Elkhart Region via bike, foot, fork, and glass.