Graduate �鶹��Ժ

Biomedical engineering’s Career Symposium returns for its third year

Alexander James Servantez — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 20:10:17 +0000

Biomedical engineering’s Career Symposium returns for its third year Alexander Jame… Fri, 10/11/2024 - 14:10

Alexander Servantez

More than 160 CU Boulder students put on their best business attire on Monday for the third annual Biomedical Engineering Career Symposium. Their mission? Go toe-to-toe with the workforce.

The symposium, organized by the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and run by students, provided an opportunity for students to connect and learn from various company representatives in the med-tech industry. It featured company information sessions, company tabling, product demonstrations, and one-on-one meetings with experienced industry professionals.

Fourteen companies and organizations, including CONMED, Medtronic and others, were in attendance to recruit some of Boulder’s finest aspiring biomedical engineers. In past years, students have received job and internship opportunities with the help of the symposium. At the very least, students walked away with valuable insight into the diverse career paths the industry has to offer.

This year’s iteration of the event looked a little different. �鶹��Ժ were required to attend a ProReady workshop in order to register for the symposium. Designed by Engineering Career Services, the ProReady initiative supports student career development, and these workshops helped prepare students to speak to company representatives in a professional setting.

“Last year, we had companies telling us that students were struggling to interact with representatives,” said Vivian Shi, a third-year student and BMES Career Symposium Committee member. “This year, our biggest focus was changing that, and I think we did a good job."

A BME student chats with a company representative at the 2024 BME Career Symposium.

Many of the students in attendance echoed some of those same sentiments. BME senior Christian Moon, who has been to multiple career symposiums, saw first hand how the workshop and symposium has affected his comfortability and confidence.

“Being able to practice interviews is nice,” Moon said. “It can be awkward to talk to people and talk about yourself. But it’s good practice and useful when interacting with people who are actually in the industry.”

Putting together an event like this is no easy task. On top of their own individual coursework, the BMES Career Symposium Committee spent long, tireless nights bringing the ballroom to life for their fellow BME classmates.

Clare Keeler, BMES Career Symposium committee chair, recalled the extensive planning involved, including difficulties wrangling commitments from companies or finding the perfect room arrangement. However, seeing vibrant and life-changing relationships being built during the event made all their hard work worth it.

“Overall, it makes me very happy that I was able to provide this experience for other students. It was a really long process dating back to April. My goal was to expand the symposium, and it just feels amazing seeing it come to life,” Keeler said.

Some company representatives gave their praise for this year’s symposium, including CONMED representative and former CU Boulder alumna Mia Fox.

Fox co-founded the BME Career Symposium and was a part of the BME program’s first graduating class in 2023. She knows first hand just how difficult coordinating this event can be, and she was proud of the committee for building on the legacy her class started during her time on campus.

“The committee has done a good job taking feedback from both students and company representatives,” Fox said. “They ran with that and they did a really good job.

“This event is unique. It’s different. It’s run by students, for students. I hope everyone continues to see the importance in that going forward.”

More than 160 of CU Boulder's finest Biomedical Engineering students attended the third annual Career Symposium in search of post-college opportunities.

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Three male BME students talking to a male company representative at the 2024 BME Career Symposium.

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Three current BME students talking to a company representative at the 2024 BME Career Symposium.

Recent PhD graduates reflect on their journeys and future plans

Anonymous — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 19:03:24 +0000

Recent PhD graduates reflect on their journeys and future plans Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 08/12/2024 - 13:03

As another academic year comes to a close, we proudly celebrate the achievements of our recent PhD graduates. These scholars - Payton Martinez, Emily Miller, and Lukas Buecherl - are ready to embark on their next adventures. We had the opportunity to speak with these graduates about their future plans, experiences, and advice for current and prospective PhD students.

What's Next for Them?

Many of the recent graduates are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Dr. Payton Martinez is heading to Stanford Univeristy for a postdoctoral appointment with Dr. Raag Airan. Dr. Emily Miller has accepted a postdoctoral position at the University of Utah in the Movement Bioengineering Lab. She will continue her research in cartilage biomechanics and osteoarthritis. Dr. Lukas Buecherl has accepted a tenure-track assistant professor position at Utah State University. He will continue his research in the Biological Engineering Department.

The CU Boulder Experience

The graduates all agreed that their time at CU Boulder was instrumental in preparing them for their careers. "The interconnectedness of the medical school and engineering school allowed me to gain experience in a variety of fields (cancer biology to mechanical engineering). This also prepared me to work and discuss complex topics with people from different backgrounds," said Dr. Martinez. "Now, as I move on I am able to make a stronger impact on the field of drug delivery by bringing new perspectives to an already interdisciplinary field."

Dr. Miller, who worked in Dr. Corey Neu's Soft Tissue Bioengineering Lab, said that she was, "Allowed a good deal of independence in what work and research projects I pursued which hopefully prepared me well for a career as an independent researcher."

Both Dr. Miller and Dr. Buecherl speak very highly about the research workshops and conferences they attended while at CU Boulder. "I was also able to attend many research workshops and conferences during my PhD, which allowed me to network with other researchers, eventually leading indirectly towards finding my postdoctoral position," Dr. Miller stated. Dr. Buecherl echoed a similar sentiment saying, "Through my PhD at CU Boulder, I was able to attend and present at conferences and published peer-reviewed articles. These experiences helped me in finding my place in the research community."

Advice for Future and Current PhD �鶹��Ժ

When asked what advice they would give to current and future PhD students, the graduates offered valuable insights. "My advice would be to plan ahead, just thinking about a potential experiment can help remove a lot of issues even before doing anything. In the long run, this will save a lot of time," advises Dr. Martinez.

Dr. Miller emphasized the importance of finding a project that will continue to bring you excitement. "Find research where you enjoy the day-to-day work, whatever that may be. For some people it could be coding, for others it could be working with people, and for others it could be lab bench top work."

Dr. Buecherl highlights the importance of building a strong support network. "My advice to new students is to seize opportunities to engage with other researchers and scientists. Remember, you belong in the field, and they are just as excited to get to know you and your work as you are to meet them."

The Biomedical Engineering Program at CU Boulder has played a pivotal role in shaping these successful graduates. Known for its highly interdisciplinary program, the department offers students numerous opportunities to work with faculty mentors across various research areas. The diverse environment fosters innovation and collaboration, leading to groundbreaking research and real-world applications.

As these recent PhD graduates move on to the next chapter of their careers, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and experience gained at CU Boulder. Their journeys serve as a testament to the university's commitment to excellence in education and research. The future looks bright for these scholars and we eagerly anticipate their continued success and impact in the world of biomedical engineering. Congratulations to all of our recent graduates!

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From left: Martinez, Miller and Buecherl after graduation at the UMC.

Celebrating the Bright Futures of the Biomedical Graduates

Anonymous — Thu, 16 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Celebrating the Bright Futures of the Biomedical Graduates Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 05/16/2024 - 00:00

Thursday, May 9, 2024 marked a momentous occasion, a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and an unyielding quest for knowledge. It was a celebration of a graduating class, a cohort of bright minds ready to make a significant impact on the world of biomedical science.

The journey to this point has been anything but easy. With this class being only the second graduating class, the number of graduates has significantly expanded over the last year. Last year, the department had 15 graduates (14 Bachelors and 1 Masters), and this year, that number jumped to 73 graduates (3PhD, 10 Masters, and 60 Bachelors). From the foundational principles of biology to cutting-edge advancement in biotechnology and biomedical engineering, these students have demonstrated exceptional resilience and intellectual curiosity.

Throughout their time at CU Boulder, these students have been supported by an outstanding faculty, whose commitment to excellence in teaching and research has provided a strong foundation for their academic and professional growth. The collaborative environment fostered within the Biomedical Engineering Department has allowed students to engage in meaningful research projects, many of which have the potential to revolutionize healthcare.

Antoinette Gawin, President and CEO of the Terumo Corporation, was this year's keynote speaker. Ms. Gawin's remarkable journey and leadership in the medical technology industry served as an inspiration to all of the graduates. Her insights and experiences will undoubtedly provide invaluable guidance as the graduates embark on their own professional paths.

As the graduates step into the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them the spirit of innovation and a deep sense of purpose. The field of biomedical science is ever-evolving, and our graduates are well-equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Whether they pursue careers in research, clinical practice, industry, or further education, their contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of medicine and healthcare.

To the Class of 2024, we say congratulations! May your careers be filled with success, discovery, and fulfillment. The University of Colorado, Boulder is immensely proud of your achievement and eagerly anticipates the remarkable contributions you will make to the world! Congratulations, Biomedical Graduates of 2024, and a special thank you to Antoinette Gawin for joining us on this special day and inspiring the next generation of biomedical professionals!

To view and download the pictures from the Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony, please visit this link.

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Two graduate students earn major National Science Foundation honors

Anonymous — Wed, 15 May 2024 21:39:30 +0000

Two graduate students earn major National Science Foundation honors Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/15/2024 - 15:39

Jeff Zehnder

The National Science Foundation has bestowed two prestigious Graduate Research Fellowship Program awards to University of Colorado Boulder biomedical engineering students.

The national awards recognize and support outstanding grad students from across the country in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees.

Graduate students Shantae Gallegos and Emma Aldrich are each receiving the honor for 2024. Find out more about their research below.

Awardees receive a $37,000 annual stipend and cost of education allowance for the next three years as well as professional development opportunities.

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Congratulations to our 2024 BME Program graduating student award winners!

Anonymous — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 03:21:32 +0000

Congratulations to our 2024 BME Program graduating student award winners! Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 04/17/2024 - 21:21

Several students from the Biomedical Engineering Program have earned 2024 Graduating Student Awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science and from the program.

These honors are awarded to students who are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students for their outstanding contributions and achievements to the program, the college and the community.

Several students from the Biomedical Engineering Program have earned 2024 Graduating Student Awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science and from the program.

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Student Spotlight - Lukas Buecherl

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 19:52:18 +0000

Student Spotlight - Lukas Buecherl Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 03/21/2024 - 13:52

Lukas Buecherl is a fourth year PhD student in the Biomedical Engineering Program and is earning an Interdisciplinary Quantative Biology (IQ Biology) PhD Certificate designed for students in life sciences, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics who are interested in joining a network of interdisciplinary faculty and peers in academia and industry.

What brought you to the University of Colorado Boulder and attracted you to the BME program?

I initially began my academic journey at the University of Utah for one semester. However, when my principal investigator received a job offer, I made the decision to relocate with him. Since then, I haven't looked back. Being part of a brand new BME program at the University of Colorado Boulder sounded like a great opportunity to me.

Tell us about your research. What is it that you study?

I'm working in a field called synthetic biology within the Chris Myer lab. Essentially, we apply engineering principles to tweak cells so they perform specific tasks for us. Picture this: cells programmed to help us recycle waste or manufacture expensive pharmaceuticals in a more affordable way. My specific focus within the field is on genetic circuits. These circuits are constructed using DNA and inserted into bacteria. However, there are numerous ways these circuits can go awry. My role involves investigating these potential failures and devising strategies to enhance the circuits' performance.

How did you first get involved in your research and what drew you to it?

While completing my degree in electrical engineering, I ended up working on brain-machine interfaces for my bachelor thesis. Since then I got stuck in the realm of biomedical engineering, although my alma mater, the University of Ulm, didn't offer a program in this field at the time.

Fortunately, one of my professors suggested I explore opportunities in the United States. With his guidance, I worked through the application process, eventually finding myself here. Soon after, my current principal investigator reached out to me, introducing me to the field of synthetic biology.

The prospect of applying my electrical engineering skills in a completely new context sounded really cool. The work seemed both familiar and new, presenting an exciting challenge in integrating biology into my expertise. Despite initially never envisioning myself in a wet lab setting, I now spend my time pipetting hopefully happy bacteria from one plate to another. It's been a journey of blending the known with the unknown, and I couldn't be more happy to be a part of it.

What kinds of challenges do you encounter in your research?

That a day has only 24 hours! Besides that, one common challenge arises when experiments fail, despite me following the protocols thoroughly. Similarly, coding can sometimes be a headache, with programs not running as anticipated and issues persisting for days on end.

However, I've learned that taking a step back and switching gears can often lead to breakthroughs. Whether it's stepping away from the lab bench to work on code, or vice versa, this flexibility allows me to approach problems from different angles. It's one of the advantages of working across both experimental and computational domains – there's always the option to shift focus and gain fresh a perspective.

What advice would you share with a student interested in studying biomedical engineering or your specific field?

First and foremost, I'd encourage any student interested in biomedical engineering, or specifically my field, to consider what they are specifically interested in. Biomedical engineering is incredibly diverse, offering a wide array of research avenues to explore.

Given that the community in my field is relatively small, I believe it's easier for new students to actively engage with others. Don't hesitate to reach out to researchers or professionals who interest you; networking can often open doors to exciting opportunities.

Equally important is the decision of who to collaborate and work with. Choose your collaborators thoughtfully, as these partnerships can greatly influence the trajectory of your research and career. Ultimately, staying curious, proactive, and selective in your collaborations can pave the way for a fulfilling journey in biomedical engineering.

As a PhD/Master student, what role has mentoring played in your work?

Of course mentorship plays a major role throughout your PhD, both as a mentee and as a mentor. Your advisor can significantly impact your research and academic experience. As a mentee, it is important to come prepared for meetings and ask targeted questions to get the help you need. Don't hesitate to seek help when needed – a simple email can often provide immediate clarity and prevent daylong frustration.

Furthermore, relationships with a diverse network of mentors is super helpful. Each mentor brings a different perspective and expertise to the table, enriching your development as a researcher. Whether they're at different stages in their careers or located in different parts of the world, it is always good to hear different opinions.

As a mentor myself, I dedicate time to my mentees. I believe in starting off each project by discussing their goals and aspirations. By aligning the project with their interests and future plans, we can tailor their experience to foster skill development and personal growth. Ultimately, mentorship should be a reciprocal relationship that enhances the academic journey for both mentors and mentees alike.

How would you like your work to help society?

My field claims many possible impacts on society ranging from affordable pharmaceuticals to sustainable energy solutions and climate change resilience. Of course it sounds very inspiring, however, my immediate focus is on making smaller contributions that may not save the world overnight, but certainly move us in the right direction.

What do you love best about attending CU Boulder?

Of course, the location is unbeatable, and the same goes for the weather. I'm also a huge sports fan, so watching the Buffs, especially the women’s basketball team, play always brings me a lot of joy

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Student Spotlight - Emily Miller

Anonymous — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 21:34:06 +0000

Student Spotlight - Emily Miller Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 03/07/2024 - 14:34

Emily Miller is a fifth year Biomedical Engineering (BME) PhD student conducting research in Dr. Corey Neu's Soft Tissue Bioengineering Lab. She will defend her dissertation in summer 2024.

What brought you to the University of Colorado Boulder and attracted you to the BME program?

My path to biomedical engineering is somewhat nontraditional. I majored in biology and minored in math as an undergrad at Middlebury College, and as I progressed in my degree, I began to look for career paths that combined both. I was lucky enough to work in a biomedical imaging lab during my senior year of undergrad, which really pushed me to consider biomedical engineering as a potential path.

After undergrad, I landed in a fantastic biomechanics lab as a masters student at the University of Virginia. I learned many foundational biomechanics skills there and really fell in love with the field of computational biomechanics. While I originally decided to pursue a master’s degree due to my uncertainty about transitioning from the liberal arts to engineering, I knew from that experience that I wanted to eventually obtain a PhD, however I was looking to move in a different research direction. When I applied to PhD programs, I was specifically looking for research that combined clinical musculoskeletal imaging studies with biomechanics. During my interview at CU, my current advisor, Dr. Corey Neu, presented me with a project that I really could not turn down. I was also drawn to join the BME program at CU because it was a unique opportunity to be part of a new department and contribute to the BME program’s early growth and culture formation.

Tell us about your research. What is it that you study?

I develop novel MRI and biomechanical methods to study cartilage degeneration in the knee, specifically in the population of adults that are at risk for post-traumatic Osteoarthritis that occurs after an ACL tear. As part of my PhD, I have played a major role in initial implementation and running a clinical observational study in which we have brought in participants who are 6 months and one-year post-ACL surgery for a series of MRI scans. With these MRI methods we can learn about both mechanical and biochemical changes to the knee joint that occur after ACL surgery. A major part of my PhD research has also been targeted towards the development of biomechanically based elastography methods, basically using computational tools to determine how soft or stiff cartilage tissue is, based only on MRI data. We are hoping we can use this work to determine participants who are most at risk for developing osteoarthritis after an ACL tear.

How did you first get involved in your research and what drew you to it?

Before CU, I had experience in both biomedical imaging and computational biomechanics and was looking to combine both of those in my PhD project. While I think the field of biomechanics has so much interesting ongoing research, I was particularly drawn to this project because I tore an ACL roughly a decade ago and am myself a part of the population at risk for developing osteoarthritis. I had no idea this project existed when I applied to CU, I just knew that there were some people doing great biomechanics work here. I feel exceptionally lucky to work on a PhD project with personal relevance.

Ironically, about a year ago, and three years after I started this project, I tore an ACL again in my other leg. It’s been an interesting experience to go through the surgical and recovery process, while simultaneously studying it, as well as interacting with the patients in my clinical studies. I actually have some really interesting data on myself now, because we took MRI images of my knee before I tore my ACL while we were in a validation phase. We then took MRI images at various timepoints after my surgery. In this type of work, it’s so rare to have data from images taken before an injury, that this has become an exciting case study, that my lab hopes to publish at a later date.

What advice would you share with a student interested in studying biomedical engineering or your specific field?

I think it’s important to find a subject where you both enjoy the technical part of the research, whether that’s wet lab experiments, or computational work, or clinical work and feel intellectually challenged or inspired by the questions you seek to answer.

As a PhD student, what role has mentoring played in your work?

I’ve mentored multiple undergrads in my work, and currently have two fantastic undergrads helping me with our MRI data processing. I’ve also personally benefitted a good deal from being mentored by more senior grad students and postdocs in all the labs I’ve been a member of, as well as by my current research advisor, Dr. Corey Neu.

How would you like your work to help society?

I believe that the creation of early and noninvasive diagnostic tools is critical to personalized and preventative medicine. I hope that my work developing methods to assess early cartilage degeneration will enhance clinical abilities to diagnose pre-osteoarthritis cartilage changes before irreversible changes to the joint occur.

What do you love best about attending CU Boulder?

CU Boulder has a fantastic graduate community, especially in engineering. Outside of my research work here, I’ve enjoyed the friendships I’ve made with other grad students and the relationships I’ve built. I’ve especially enjoyed the opportunities to stay active, whether that is skiing with friends, or playing other sports. I’ve played for several years now on an indoor soccer team with other graduate engineering students, which has been a great social and physical outlet.

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Student Spotlight - Isabelle Eskay

Anonymous — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 17:05:35 +0000

Student Spotlight - Isabelle Eskay Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 02/22/2024 - 10:05

Isabelle Eskay is a first year Biomedical Engineering (BME) Masters student conducting research in the lab of Dr. Debanjan Mukherjee and is a mid-fielder for the CU womens soccer team. To support the BME community, she has worked as a Course Assistant for the senior design capstone course for both the fall and spring semesters helping our current senior students.

What brought you to the University of Colorado Boulder and attracted you to the BME program?

My initial attraction to the University of Colorado Boulder was through its soccer program. I did my undergraduate degree at The George Washington University, in Washington, DC, where I played four years of division I soccer and majored in Biomedical Engineering. I had an extra year of eligibility and the opportunity to play at a different university. I was looking for somewhere with a competitive soccer team and a prestigious academic program. When I was recruited to play at Colorado, it seemed like the perfect fit. It offered something new and exciting in location, with a strong academic reputation in the engineering department. It was an opportunity I could not turn down.

What skills/knowledge do you hope to gain during your Master’s program? What do you hope to pursue after you complete the program (career/academic wise)?

Throughout my Master’s program, I have gained knowledge in many different fields. I came into the program on the course-based track, with the goal of getting exposed to topics that I was not able to study in depth in my undergrad. Due to CU’s BME program, I have been able to take courses in a variety of different fields and broaden my expertise in BME. Post graduation, I hope to work in industry, specifically with medical devices. As of now, I hope to come back to school after a few years in the workforce to pursue a PhD. Hopefully, in that time I will find a specialized topic that I am passionate about and can continue my education.

What advice would you share with a student interested in studying biomedical engineering or your specific field?

Biomedical Engineering is a very broad field, that you can do many things with. If you are just getting starting with your degree, focus on building a strong foundation in your course work, while looking for hands-on experience though research, internships, etc. Try to stay updated on industry trends, network with your professor and mentors, and begin to consider specializations within the field. It can be daunting to narrow down your interests into one expertise, but take note of what you like in the field, and more importantly, what you don’t like. The possibilities are endless, but enjoy the process and stay motivated!

How would you like your work to help society?

I hope that through my career my work can contribute meaningfully to society by pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and technology. I aim to provide solutions that not only address current medical issues, but also anticipate and adapt to the evolving needs of society. Ultimately, advancing the field and fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for our society.

What do you love best about attending CU Boulder?

Attending CU Boulder, has been absolutely amazing. Blending the exceptional athletic programs with top-notch academics, has afforded me an unparalleled experince. I have been integrated into a dynamic and collaborative environment that has inspired me to push my boundaries and strive for excellence in every endeavor. With this, the natural beauty of Colorado has been an incredible backdrop to my journey, especially being from the east coat. From the beautiful hikes to learning the art of skiing, each moment has enriched my experience in ways I could not have imagined.

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Student Spotlight: Payton Martinez

Anonymous — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:20:20 +0000

Student Spotlight: Payton Martinez Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 02/08/2024 - 12:20

Payton Martinez is a third year PhD student in the Biomedical Engineering Program and is earning an Interdisciplinary Quantative Biology (IQ Biology) PhD Certificate designed for students in life sciences, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics who are interested in joining a network of interdisciplinary faculty and peers in academia and industry.

What brought you to the University of Colorado Boulder and attracted you to the BME program?

Coming from a background in BME in undergrad I knew how important it was to have a vet and medical school near the campus and Boulder is perfectly placed between the two. I also loved how the professors were very talented while understanding the importance of a good work/life balance.

Tell us about your research. What is it that you study?

In the Borden lab, I study drug delivery to the central nervous system using focused ultrasound and microbubbles. This is a newer field that provides a means of opening the blood-brain barrier non-invasively. I specifically study how this can be used to more effectively treat a childhood cancer (Diffuse Midline Gliomas).

How did you first get involved in your research and what drew you to it? Or what if anything inspired you to pursue this research?

I began my research the summer before starting my PhD. I have always been interested in the brain in particular treating neurological diseases. One major issue with treating these diseases is the restrictiveness of the blood-brain barrier and this research puts me at the forefront of solving this problem.

What kinds of challenges do you encounter in your research?

There are so many challenges in research from basic issues like reagents not working to big problems like machines not functioning properly. However, I love solving problems so sometimes this is the best part.

What advice would you share with a student interested in studying biomedical engineering or your specific field?

My advice to a student starting BME is the research can be so broad that it may seem impossible to fully understand everything at first although as you work through problems and read literature it will become much easier. Furthermore, the research that BME produces can be some of the most fulfilling because of its interdisciplinary nature.

How would you like your work to help society?

I am lucky that my work is very translational and I am hoping to see the preclinical work I have done during my time here be used in clinical trials soon. In particular, finding a more effective treatment for Diffuse Midline Gliomas and improving/extending the lives of the patients.

What do you love best about attending CU Boulder?

My favorite thing about CU Boulder is the community. Everyone is always willing to help or at least find someone else who can. Rather than competitiveness, everyone works together, and this is evident through the amazing interdisciplinary work that is produced by this campus.

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Q&A: Inspiring the Next Generation of Biomedical Engineers

Anonymous — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:18:36 +0000

Q&A: Inspiring the Next Generation of Biomedical Engineers Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 09/05/2023 - 17:18

Corrin is the recepient of the Investing in CU Engineering (ICUE) Graduate Fellowship.

Corrin, tell us about your research. What is it that you study?

Currently, I work in Dr. Maureen Lynch’s mechanobiology laboratory, researching breast cancer bone metastasis. Advanced breast cancer commonly metastasizes to the skeleton, and is incurable. Patient prognosis is poor alongside a myriad of devastating symptoms such as bone loss and severe pain. Mechanical stimuli from exercise is known to promote bone remodeling, increasing bone volume and inhibiting bone metastatic tumor formation. The molecular mechanisms and the influence tumor cells have on bone cells are still under investigation.

My research explores the potential impact and mechanism breast cancer has on mechanically loaded bone cells. Specifically, I use a breast cancer cell line that is chemotherapy-resistant, as are patients with bone metastasis, and I expose it to various radiation treatments, mimicking front-line clinical therapy. I will collect signaling proteins secreted by the cancer cells after radiation and measure their abundance via oncology antibody arrays. Then, I will feed these proteins to bone cells cultured in real bone tissue explants (explants are devitalized bovine trabecular bone, where osteogenic cells are implanted and attached within), then apply mechanical signals to mimic human physical activity. This system models the mechanical bone environment while also exposing bone cells to secreted tumor factors. I will observe the downstream effects the tumor factors may have on the bone cells through gene expression, molecular markers and histology. My experimental approach will create a better molecular understanding of how cancer dysregulates bone cells. My findings have the potential to translate to therapeutics, improving patient outcomes.

How did you first get involved in your research and what drew you to it?

My first semester at CU, I engaged in multiple laboratory rotations, one of which is my current placement. Throughout my rotation in Dr. Lynch’s lab, I gained insight by actively participating in activities such as shadowing, attending informative meetings, and collaborating with fellow lab members. Immediately I was drawn to the breast cancer bone metastasis research and the innovative questions the lab was addressing. I was intrigued by the different technical skills such as histology, imaging, molecular biology and mechanical engineering. Furthermore, the lab environment felt very supportive, collaborative and well managed. Considering all these factors, I reached a decision to join Dr. Lynch’s lab.

What kinds of challenges do you encounter in your research?

Working in a wet lab with biological materials presents several unique challenges such as biological variability and contamination. Not only can biological materials be challenging to work with, but additional complexity arises when researching novel experimental methods, which further complicates troubleshooting. In addition, occasionally experiments do not yield the expected or desired results, which can be challenging.

What advice would you share with a student interested in studying biomedical engineering or your specific field?

I would suggest exploring your interests to identify the specific aspects of the field that captivate you the most, as biomedical engineering is a multidisciplinary field that combines biology, medicine and engineering. You can explore your interests not only through literature review but internships, research opportunities or projects to give yourself hands-on experience. In addition, reach out to mentors within the field who can offer personalized guidance for your goals and can help you navigate decisions.

As a Master student, what role has mentoring played in your work?

Mentoring has played a central role in shaping and advancing my research endeavors. Through the guidance and insights provided by Dr. Lynch, I have been able to navigate the complexities of my field with greater clarity and purpose. Dr. Lynch’s expertise has enriched my understanding of current literature and has propelled me toward novel inquires. Overall, mentoring has been pivotal in refining my research questions and empowers me to contribute meaningful knowledge to my field.

How do you plan to utilize your reward money?

My plan is to use these funds strategically to support various aspects of my academic journey. A portion will go towards tuition, ensuring I can fully engage in my academic pursuits. Additionally, some of the reward money will be allocated to cover living expenses, and other bills such as groceries. This will alleviate financial stress, allowing me to zero in on my thesis while also growing personally and professionally.

What do you love best about attending CU Boulder?

I hold a deep appreciation for CU Boulder due to the wide array of opportunities the school has offered me from research projects, to serving as a teaching assistant (TA), this fellowship and extracurricular activities. The opportunity to TA is especially meaningful to me, as I recognize not all master students are afforded this privilege. In addition, I love the flexibility within my program regarding course selection, giving me the opportunity to finely tailor my education to align with my career aspirations. I can strategically curate a curriculum that hones in on the specific skills, knowledge and expertise crucial for my career path. I also am enthralled by the research endeavors being undertaken at the school and particularly within my own lab.

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