Desney Tan’s Departure from Microsoft: A Legacy of Innovation in Research and Healthcare

After an illustrious 21-year career, Desney Tan, who ascended from a researcher to the esteemed position of corporate vice president and managing director at Microsoft Research, has announced his departure from the tech giant.

Tan gained recognition for his groundbreaking research in areas such as “whole body computing,” physiological sensing, brain-computer interfaces, and other innovative human-computer interaction methods. His contributions encompassed a wide array of projects, including Windows multi-monitor functionality, handwriting recognition, motion tracking for Xbox Kinect, and the technology underpinning the Microsoft Band fitness tracker.

In recent years, Tan shifted his focus towards healthcare, spearheading initiatives at Microsoft Health Futures, the company’s hub for health and life sciences innovation. His leadership led to impactful collaborations, such as Microsoft’s partnership with Adaptive Biotechnologies.

Sharing the news on LinkedIn, Tan expressed his excitement for new adventures, stating that he is departing Microsoft with a heart full of gratitude and pride. He extended his appreciation to his colleagues at Microsoft Research for providing a nurturing environment, unwavering trust, and a shared commitment to innovative advancements.

When contacted by GeekWire, Tan revealed that he is deliberately keeping his options open, with no concrete plans in place, allowing him the freedom to explore different opportunities.

Besides his role at Microsoft, Tan sits on the boards of ResMed and the Washington Research Foundation, while also offering advisory services to startups like Proprio, a surgical navigation company, and NewDays, a cognitive health startup. Additionally, he serves as a senior advisor and chief technologist at IntuitiveX, a Seattle-based incubator, and holds an affiliate faculty position at the University of Washington.