Student Spotlight

Six biomedical engineering students earn graduating student awards

Alexander James Servantez — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:02:03 +0000

Six biomedical engineering students earn graduating student awards Alexander Jame… Wed, 04/23/2025 - 14:02

Alexander Servantez

Six students from the Biomedical Engineering program (BME) have earned graduating student awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science in 2025.

These awards honor seniors who are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students for their outstanding contributions.

Each of the seven award winners will be recognized and celebrated at the department's Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, May 8.

Read below to learn more about these students and their amazing achievements.

Creighton Tisdale

Tisdale has received the Academic Engagement Award for his exemplary commitment to the college ecosystem. He has served as a course assistant for numerous classes, providing an enriching educational experience for his peers. In many cases, he even went above-and-beyond to learn new material in order to make sure he could assist effectively.

He's also excelled tremendously in the classroom and as an undergraduate researcher. Tisdale has maintained a 3.93 GPA and is a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship at ��ɫ��Ƶ. In the lab, he has displayed the ability to quickly pick up complex concepts, even becoming a second author on a recently accepted research paper after working in the Shields Lab under Assistant Professor C. Wyatt Shields IV for only six months. Outside of academics, Tisdale coaches youth sports, focusing on making the game accessible and inclusive for anyone. His nominator says Tisdale is a competitive nominee for any awards offered this spring, but academic engagement is where he shines the most.

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

I came to ��ɫ��Ƶ hoping I could find my way towards designing and improving surgical and medical devices—my undergraduate experience prepared me more than I would've ever imagined. I was lucky enough to work on a senior design project fully focused on electrosurgery and device design, as well as gaining experience with unorthodox diagnostic techniques in my research. CEAS and the BME program allowed me to find the career direction I was seeking from the start by giving me loads of hands-on academic and professional exposure.

Fishion Yohannes

Yohannes is being tapped as a recipient of the Community Engagement Award for her unwavering commitment to community service through her involvement in mentorship, student support programs and advocacy initiatives. As a Lattice Scholars mentor, she is constantly providing guidance and encouragement to ��ɫ��Ƶ's first-generation scholars. She has also served as a lead mentor in the Engineering GoldShirt program, advocating for student success and cultivating an environment built on support, leadership and resilience. Her nominator says her impact is so profound, that many students have come back to become mentors themselves, "hoping to give back even a fraction of what she gave to them. The culture she has built will have a lasting legacy far beyond her time on campus."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

After graduation, I will be pursuing an industry role where I can apply all of the technical, collaborative, and problem-solving skills I’ve developed during my time at ��ɫ��Ƶ. CEAS not only provided me with rigorous academic preparation, but also offered mentorship, resources, and opportunities that shaped my confidence and career direction. Without the support of ��ɫ��Ƶ and CEAS, I truly don't know where I'd be today. I’ve found an irreplaceable community that made me feel supported, empowered, and seen as an engineer. This experience has not only prepared me for industry but has instilled a deep sense of purpose and belonging that I will carry with me into every future endeavor.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

My best advice for current students and future students has to be to know that you belong. Engineering is challenging, but you are not alone. Seek out mentors, seek community, and most importantly seek help. It’s OK not to know everything. Imposter syndrome is very real, but please remember that your perspective and contributions are beyond valuable. Your journey will have obstacles, but perseverance, resilience, and a strong support system will guide you. More than anything, never let self-doubt dictate your potential because you are capable, you are worthy, and you have the power to make a difference.

Cassidy Allen

Allen is receiving a Research Award from the college for her outstanding and impactful contributions to the biomedical industry. During her time at ��ɫ��Ƶ, she has helped create a more efficient method for treating Raynaud's Disease using an adaptive device. Currently, treatment for the disease is done using a broad approach where whole extremities (hands, feet, etc.) are treated using a glove or sock-like device. The device's power consumption and design limited the treatment's effectiveness.

But Allen had other ideas. She introduced sensor-targeted treatment that greatly increased effectiveness and reduced the device's power consumption by nearly 66%. Her novel thinking, as well as her collaboration with other entities in the BME program, have fueled her early research success, and positioned her for a future patent for her technology.

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

Next, I will be joining the Cardiac Electrophysiology division at Abbott Laboratories as a software systems engineer in St. Paul, Minnesota. There, I’ll be contributing to the research and development of cutting-edge cardiac ablation systems to treat various arrhythmias with combined radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and pulsed field ablation (PFA) techniques. My experience at ��ɫ��Ƶ and CEAS prepared me incredibly well for this opportunity. Through hands-on research and course projects, I developed practical and problem-solving skills that I feel confident bringing into this next chapter.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

Don’t be afraid to fail! Some of the most valuable experiences come from mistakes and unexpected outcomes. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow, so embrace those moments and use them to become a better thinker and creator.

Shannon Blanco

Blanco is graduating with a dual major in mechanical engineering and biomedical engineering. She is receiving the Research Award for her work as a member of Neu Lab under Professor Corey Neu. Since joining this group in 2022, Blanco has contributed greatly to impact in the fields of biofabrication, 3D bioprinting, and the advancement of knowledge of osteoarthritis. Current solutions for younger patients with osteoarthritis who do not qualify for total knee replacements are primarily anti-inflammatory drugs that don’t restore the afflicted cartilage or bone tissue. There is a need for new treatment options, and her work will help bring these options to life.

She is also being recognized as a key member of an interdisciplinary team. She has co-authored peer-reviewed publications and worked with multiple stakeholders throughout her time at ��ɫ��Ƶ, including doctors, surgeons and PhD-level scientists. Her nominator says her contributions have been "trusted by all members of the laboratory."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

After graduating this spring, I will be continuing at ��ɫ��Ƶ to pursue my master’s in mechanical engineering through the BAM program. In the future, I hope to work in medical device design or prosthetics. ��ɫ��Ƶ has helped prepare me beyond an educational standpoint by providing opportunities to get involved outside of class and make valuable connections.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

Take advantage of the opportunities CU has to offer, whether it's research, clubs, internships, or design projects. Explore different areas, even if you're unsure at first, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Julia Keefe

Keefe's research ownership and tenacious attitude has earned her a Research Award this spring. During her time in the Rationally Designed Immunotherapeutics & Interfaces Research Group under Assistant Professor Kayla Sprenger, Keefe has evolved her learning and skills into novel thinking and questions. In fact, she even found a gap in literature, and her innovative work will one day provide mechanistic insight into the biomedical field.

Her project, funded by the Discovery Learning Apprenticeship Program (DLA), identifies protein-ligand conformations to propose druggable targets and aid future immunotherapeutic design. The diligent attention to detail and awareness will advance efforts toward immune regulation in inflammatory and immune-resolution disease states, improving translatability of rationally designed therapeutics that will directly benefit women’s health research. Keefe is also a former dancer. Her nominator says her research prowess is defined by her ability to "combine art and medicine, design and engineering." She presented her research at this year's DLA symposium and is currently working on submitting her research to a peer-reviewed journal.

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

After graduation, I am looking to continue working in the field of cancer research and technologies with a focus on women's health. CEAS helped me prepare by allowing me to explore so many different areas of engineering to truly find where my passions lie.

Hayden Tomazin

Tomazin is receiving a Research Award for his exceptional ability to complex scientific concepts and apply them to challenging research problems. His research primarily focuses on magnetically responsive microstructures. Using precise magnetic control to create lock-and-key microassemblies, Tomazin has been developing new fabrication techniques that can open doors for innovative applications in microsurgery and targeted drug delivery. His work could one day pave the way for a new class of noninvasive medical interventions.

Tomazin's contributions will also make their way into two publications out of the Shields Lab, led by Assistant Professor C. Wyatt Shields IV. He will be the second and third author in these publications, showcasing his outstanding dedication and curiosity to research. Beyond the lab, Tomazin has effectively shared his research and knowledge with a broader audience, presenting posters at conferences and through collaborations with other universities. His nominator says this level of undergraduate research achievement is rare, and that Tomazin is "one of the most capable undergraduate researchers I have mentored in my career."

What's next for you and how did CU Engineering help you prepare for the future?

I'm hoping to find a job where I can use my research experience to help make medical treatment more accessible and less invasive.

Seven students from the Biomedical Engineering program (BME) have earned graduating student awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science in 2025. These awards honor seniors who are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students for their outstanding contributions to the college and campus community.

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AI in synthetic biology? One PhD student says 'the opportunities are endless'

Alexander James Servantez — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 21:22:51 +0000

AI in synthetic biology? One PhD student says 'the opportunities are endless' Alexander Jame… Fri, 04/18/2025 - 15:22

Alexander Servantez

Carolus Vitalis grew up in a small town in Chile—a town so small it doesn’t appear on any maps.

Now he’s at the forefront of a large, impactful discussion: the pros and cons of artificial intelligence in the field of synthetic biology.

Vitalis performing lab work in the Genetic Logic Lab under Professor Chris Myers at ��ɫ��Ƶ. (Photo by Juan Hanel)

Vitalis, a PhD student in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) at ��ɫ��Ƶ and National Science Foundation (NSF) fellow who has co-authored several book chapters in synthetic biology, was one of the headliners at this year’s TEDxCU event on April 5. The annual speaker series brings the local community together to engage in conversations exploring everything from science and business to education, arts and global issues.

This year’s event had a theme: “anomaly”. Nine speakers from all across the Boulder area took the stage to redefine what it means to be normal. Whether it’s a local Olympic duo sharing their unorthodox training methods, or a ��ɫ��Ƶ student discussing her rare neurocognitive condition, these thought-provoking talks challenged the community to think beyond convention and see their differences as strengths.

For Vitalis, the word “anomaly” is special. It represents a personal journey that takes him back home to his family.

Vitalis fell in love with science when he was just a little boy. But after his father died following a battle with cancer, he quickly realized that biology and engineering isn’t just a fascination. It was his purpose.

“My father wasn’t able to see me graduate from high school. He died right before I started college,” said Vitalis. “I always had a passion for science and synthetic biology, but when he passed everything shifted. At that moment, my curiosity turned into my purpose. I became determined to find out why my family’s genes were not functioning properly and how I could fix it.”

These early passions led Vitalis to the University of Chile, where he graduated with a professional degree in molecular biotechnology engineering. He says this early schooling helped create a strong foundation of knowledge, and fostered problem solving skills crucial to his vision.

Vitalis, a curious and experienced synthetic biologist, examining lab materials in the laboratory. (Photo by Juan Hanel)

Today, Vitalis designs novel DNA sequences under Professor Chris Myers in the Genetic Logic Lab using AI—a burgeoning tool taking the world by storm. It’s a unique intersection of biology and technology that he believes is more than necessary.

“Everything happening within a cell is so complex for a human to understand on their own,” Vitalis said. “If we ever want to develop more precise tools to address challenges in climate, health, agriculture and beyond, we will need the help of a computer to run these simulations and apply the right resources.”

It goes back to the term “anomaly,” the TEDxCU event’s central focus. For years, synthetic biologists have seen cell complexity and variation as an obstacle, limiting their ability to innovate new solutions.

Vitalis is urging the next crop of genetic engineers to embrace these biological anomalies with a team of man and machine that he believes can be revolutionary.

“The opportunities are endless,” said Vitalis. “Maybe one day we can engineer therapeutic bacteria that act as biosensors—detecting disease markers, processing that information and releasing treatment only at the site where it is needed. Or maybe we can modify plants that are tolerant to saline conditions or drought.

“Our field is about modifying biology, so we can potentially impact everywhere biology is involved.”

Vitalis understands the discussion surrounding this new-age collaboration isn’t as simple as it seems. There are some ethical questions and concerns that may arise that he would like to address, as well.

“A lot of people are going to hesitate and wonder if we are ‘playing god’ or messing with higher powers,” Vitalis said. "I want to remind people that humans have been modifying nature for thousands of years by selecting traits in crops and livestock that meet our needs. What is different now is that we can do it with much greater precision, speed and safety, guided by scientific knowledge. There are also strict protocols in place to ensure that these technologies are developed responsibly."

It’s not just about scientific advancements and ethical debates. Most importantly, Vitalis wants to inspire a new era of innovators to challenge the standards and look beyond their upbringing—just like he did on his way to Boulder.

“I hope that my work and my story can inspire people to work together and dream big,” said Vitalis.

Carolus Vitalis, a PhD student in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) at ��ɫ��Ƶ and National Science Foundation (NSF) fellow who has co-authored several book chapters in synthetic biology, was one of the headliners at this year’s TEDxCU event on April 5. His talk discussed the pros and cons of artificial intelligence in the field of synthetic biology.

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Carolus Vitalis, a PhD student in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) at ��ɫ��Ƶ and National Science Foundation (NSF) fellow who has co-authored several book chapters in synthetic biology, during his TEDxCU talk on April 5. (Photo by Juan Hanel)

Graduating undergraduate student Gabriella Erich receives the CEAS 2024 Outstanding Research Award

Alexander James Servantez — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 17:20:41 +0000

Graduating undergraduate student Gabriella Erich receives the CEAS 2024 Outstanding Research Award Alexander Jame… Mon, 12/16/2024 - 10:20

Alexander Servantez

Gabriella Erich, a biomedical engineering (BME) student graduating this fall, has been selected to receive the ��ɫ��Ƶ College of Engineering and Applied Science 2024 Outstanding Research Award.

This award is given to undergraduate students who demonstrate research excellence that is both interdisciplinary and impactful. Erich is the fourth BME student to win the award since the young program’s conception in 2018. But her journey to this award was a little different.

The unique, early journey

Gabriella Erich, a graduating BME student and winner of the CEAS 2024 Outstanding Research Award.

Growing up in both Boulder and Los Angeles, Erich had two passions: space and medicine.

“When I was a kid, I had a NASA astronaut suit in my room,” Erich said. “But I also loved my chemistry classes, my biology classes and I always wanted to be a doctor.”

As college inched closer, Erich was unsure what degree path to pursue. The decision was difficult but she eventually chose the Ann and H.J. Smead Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the ��ɫ��Ƶ.

Erich enjoyed aerospace engineering. But she quickly discovered that she wasn’t feeling passion and she needed a change. She had also been dealing with some bad news from back home: Two of her uncles had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurological disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

“Their diagnosis really sparked my passion again. I knew I wanted to switch over to biomedical engineering and assist in the research to help treat the disease and save lives in the future,” Erich said. “It was a tough transition, but it was incredibly worth it.”

Erich began taking BME courses during her fourth semester at ��ɫ��Ƶ. One of them was an introductory course with Professor Mark Borden, where she first carved out her niche in the world of biomedical research.

“I remember when Dr. Borden talked about the microbubbles that he and his students worked with in his lab,” she said. “I really had no clue what they were, but I realized his research was something I was interested in. When I saw his graduate students present it again in a different class, I decided it was something I was going to pursue.”

In the next year, Erich applied to the Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) and was accepted into the Borden Research Lab.

“It was daunting at first,” Erich said. “I really wanted to make sure I impressed them. Once I got into the lab, I showed that I can ask questions and learn quickly. It became a pretty seamless transition after that.”

The award-winning research

Erich conducted multiple independent studies during her time in the Borden lab. Each of them analyzed endoskeletal droplets, exoskeletal droplets and their response to a phase transition phenomenon called acoustic droplet vaporization (ADV).

Erich (right) and another student collaborating in the Borden lab.

ADV occurs when liquid droplets are vaporized under ultrasound. This technique is often used to explore more precise imaging and drug delivery solutions. But endoskeletal droplets are more complex; they contain an internal solid hydrocarbon structure that allows researchers to control their stability and vaporizability.

Using ultrasound, Erich developed a testing setup using a research ultrasound transducer to study the endoskeletal droplets and their behavior under ADV. This novel research yielded results that mark the first formal characterization of endoskeletal droplets with this phenomenon.

With more analysis and improvement to the test setup, Erich believes this work can possibly help engineers and scientists discover a safer, more cost-effective method of drug delivery and treating brain-related diseases.

“There are cures for cancer like radiation and chemotherapy,” she said. “But there are problems with those. Ultrasound is noninvasive, so using these droplets could be a safer and cheaper way to deliver this type of care.”

In October, Erich was invited to present her findings at the Biomedical Engineering Society annual meeting. She is currently working on another independent study, this time analyzing the effects of ADV on exoskeletal droplets that have external solid structures. For this research, Erich is developing an electronic setup to alter more parameters using both a transmit and a receive transducer.

“It’s a similar principle as my past studies,” Erich said. “We want to see when this droplet vaporizes under ultrasound. But we want to alter a few more parameters such as pulse length, pulse repetition frequency, and mechanical index to see the effect of those on the droplets as well.”

The lasting impact

Erich during her time as an Engineering Ambassador, sharing her knowledge and love for research with prospective students and families.

Erich has proved her worth as a researcher and community member in other areas, too. This past summer, she worked at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) developing magnetic nanoparticles for use as contrast agents in a low-field magnetic resonance imaging system (MRI). She has also served as an Engineering Ambassador, sharing her path and passion for research with prospective students and families.

Most of all, Erich hopes her college journey will inspire future undergraduates to find their passion in research. Especially those who come from a unique path, just as she did.

“I come from a non-STEM family, and I started in aerospace. I never thought I would ever have this opportunity,” she said. “I’m grateful to have been a part of this program, and I am honored to be given this award.”

The achievement of the Outstanding Research Award will be recognized at the College of Engineering and Applied Science Graduation Ceremony on Dec. 19, 2024. Erich hopes to return to ��ɫ��Ƶ as a graduate student in fall 2025 or use her research knowledge to work in medical imaging.

Gabriella Erich, a graduating student in biomedical engineering has been selected to receive the ��ɫ��Ƶ College of Engineering and Applied Science 2024 Outstanding Research Award. Her novel research marks the first formal characterization of endoskeletal droplets under acoustic droplet vaporization (ADV).

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Recent PhD graduate Payton Martinez receives the CEAS 2024 Outstanding Dissertation Award

Alexander James Servantez — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:47:29 +0000

Recent PhD graduate Payton Martinez receives the CEAS 2024 Outstanding Dissertation Award Alexander Jame… Mon, 12/16/2024 - 09:47

Alexander Servantez

Payton Martinez, a recent biomedical engineering (BME) PhD graduate, has been selected to receive the ��ɫ��Ƶ College of Engineering and Applied Science 2024 Outstanding Dissertation Award.

This award is given annually to a doctoral research student completing their PhD degree requirements whose written dissertation demonstrates outstanding quality, research excellence and topical importance.

Growing up in the Denver area, Martinez would often take apart electronic devices to study their mechanisms and understand how they worked. He said he loved math, science and working with his hands.

Payton Martinez, recent PhD graduate in biomedical engineering and winner of the CEAS 2024 Outstanding Dissertation Award.

As Martinez became older, he took a sharp interest in medical technology and neuroscience. He began to notice family members going in and out of the hospital for various illnesses, and he wondered about the risks associated with the treatments they were being given.

“I realized that I wanted to use engineering to focus on something valuable,” Martinez said. “Not an item or a product like a television. Something valuable like the lives of humans or even animals.”

Martinez attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and received his undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering. He was then introduced to the Borden Research Lab, led by Professor Mark A. Borden at the ��ɫ��Ƶ.

Here, he was able to continue his studies in ��ɫ��Ƶ’s BME graduate program and quench the thirst for all his curiosities at once: medicine, technology and neuroscience.

Martinez’ dissertation is titled “Improving the Treatment of DMG Using Focused Ultrasound and Microbubbles Mediated Blood-Brain Barrier Opening.” The research explores how ultrasound and microbubbles can potentially work in tandem to effectively deliver drugs to the brain and treat neurological diseases in the future.

According to Martinez, neurological disorders were the second leading cause of death in 2016. This is not because our drugs and therapeutic treatments are ineffective. Instead, Martinez argues we need to improve drug delivery methods in order to reach these brain-related illnesses.

“Many pharmaceutical companies have developed drugs over the years that work super well when you have the drug and cell right next to each other,” Martinez said. “But our brains have a blood-brain barrier that prevents these effective drugs from getting past and attacking the cell.

“The big issue when it comes to neurological diseases and brain cancer is taking the drugs and figuring out a way to deliver them to humans.”

During his time in the Borden lab, Martinez focused specifically on diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a brain tumor located in the pons region of the brain that primarily affects children.

This rare form of cancer is unique. While some cancerous tumors have a slightly leaky or porous blood-brain barrier, allowing certain drug treatments to pass, the DIPG blood-brain barrier is fully intact. This makes the cancer almost impossible to treat in any way that is both safe and cost-effective.

“Using the technology we developed in the Borden lab, we were able to pass through the blood-brain barrier and reduce the tumor size in mice,” Martinez said. “Of course, this is on a much smaller scale than treating humans. But overall, we were able to increase the survival of these tumor-bearing mice.”

Martinez looks to expand on this research even further in the future. He is currently a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University using ultrasound and microbubbles to possibly treat other neurological ailments as well. His goal is to remain in academia and eventually start his own lab where he can continue to push the limits of his research and discoveries.

The achievement of this award will be recognized at the College of Engineering and Applied Science Graduation Ceremony on December 19, 2024.

More than anything, Martinez wants to give thanks.

“I’m extremely grateful to receive this award, and I am thankful for my advisor, Mark Borden, for nominating me,” Martinez said. “Thank you to everyone who helped me along the way. A lot of my journey was learning from experts and mentors and it’s extremely impacted what I know and have done today.”

Payton Martinez, a recent PhD graduate in biomedical engineering has been selected to receive the ��ɫ��Ƶ College of Engineering and Applied Science 2024 Outstanding Dissertation Award. His research explores how ultrasound and microbubbles can potentially work in tandem to effectively deliver drugs to the brain and treat neurological diseases in the future.

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Student Spotlight: Chad Healy

Anonymous — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 19:32:25 +0000

Student Spotlight: Chad Healy Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 07/11/2022 - 13:32

Rachel Leuthauser

PhD student Chad Healy.

Chad Healy is a PhD student researching how the brain controls movement in Professor Alaa Ahmed’s lab. He returned to finish his PhD in 2021 after taking a break from his studies to complete an internship with SpaceX.

What brought you to the ��ɫ��Ƶ and attracted you to the BME program?

I initially joined ��ɫ��Ƶ in 2009 for a master’s degree in aerospace engineering. The wonderful town, great people and caliber of education drew me back to ��ɫ��Ƶ to continue my education in 2013 and again in 2021. Most recently, I was attracted to join the BME program because of the unique opportunity to be part of a new department under the guidance and leadership of my longtime mentor and advisor, Professor Alaa Ahmed. The chance to directly contribute to the early growth and development of the BME program was a huge draw for me.

Explain the research you are doing in Professor Ahmed’s lab.

In Professor Ahmed’s lab, we are focused on understanding how the brain controls movement. We take a modeling approach to describe human movement that combines neuroeconomic frameworks, dynamical models, control algorithms and machine learning techniques to describe human movement decisions. My research focuses on how we represent physical effort in our movement decisions.

How would you like your work to help society?

With a better understanding of the process of human movement, we can develop more effective treatments for movement disorders and improve rehabilitation techniques. We can also develop more human-like robotics and prosthetics.

Healy worked in Mission Control while at SpaceX.

What was your role at SpaceX and how was that internship experience?

I led the Human Factors team, which focused on astronaut integration with our various spacecraft, including conducting all human-in-the-loop tests. I was also given the opportunity to work in Mission Control as the Crew Operations and Resources Engineer (CORE).

I really enjoyed my time at SpaceX! It was very motivating to work with so many bright, hard-working engineers and to make a measurable impact every day. When I took the internship in 2016, I was given the opportunity for a full-time role, but I always intended to finish my PhD. In 2021, the timing was right, and I was lucky enough to be able to continue my PhD where I had left off.

What’s your favorite part about being a Buff?

I feel like I could talk all day about the wonderful things about being a Buff, so it’s hard to choose a favorite. First and foremost, you get a world-class education in a world-class environment. The access to year-round outdoor adventure is something I think all Buffs appreciate about ��ɫ��Ƶ. Beyond that, it’s being a part of a supportive community that provides opportunities to learn and explore.

On a personal note, we recently got a puppy, Isabella or “Isa” – a five-month old GSP/Blue Heeler mix. Another thing I appreciate about the Boulder community is how dog-friendly it is. Looking forward to taking her out on trail runs this summer!

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Student Spotlight: Mia Fox

Anonymous — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 15:57:33 +0000

Student Spotlight: Mia Fox Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 06/13/2022 - 09:57

Rachel Leuthauser

Mia Fox is a rising senior in the Biomedical Engineering Program who is completing an internship this summer with CONMED, a medical device company with a location in Denver. She hopes her innovative work will one day help save lives.

What brought you to ��ɫ��Ƶ and attracted you to the BME program?

I grew up in Boulder, driving past the ��ɫ��Ƶ campus daily. When it came time to choose a university, I found it difficult to leave Boulder. I could not find a school or town that I enjoyed more. I began my education at ��ɫ��Ƶ in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering because I had an interest in biology and the goal of attending medical school. Chemical and biological engineering was a good fit and a challenge. But, when the Biomedical Engineering program was introduced in fall 2020, I knew that it was the program for me.

I have experienced smaller class sizes, stronger relationships with my professors and have had the opportunity to be president of the Biomedical Engineering Society student chapter. Working with fellow biomedical engineering students to build a community within this new program has been rewarding. After spending the last two years pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering and with one year left to go, I can say that it was one of the best decisions that I have ever made.

What will you be doing for CONMED during your internship this summer?

I will be working as a mechanical engineering intern within the Advanced Surgical Unit at CONMED. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to get first-hand experience and to work with an excellent team of engineers.

Through the internship application process, I learned that while Boulder is a biotech hub, many of the companies do not understand the value of engineers with a biomedical engineering background. I am incredibly grateful to CONMED for taking the time to talk with me and giving me the opportunity to show what a biomedical engineering student can do. I hope that as the years go on, more companies cue in on the value of such a diverse field of study.

How would you like your work to help society?

I have known for a long time that I wanted my career to be focused on helping others. For many years I thought that my path would include medical school. Even after transferring into the biomedical program, I still had plans to pursue medical school. However, as I have learned more about biomedical engineering and the importance of biomedical innovation, I have realized that there are so many ways to positively impact others.

My goal is to add to innovation, continue to aid doctors in saving lives, and improve the recovery and comfort of patients. I now know that the creation and improvement of medical devices is as important to the medical world as using them on others. I look forward to seeing a project that I work on in the future be used to positively impact others.

Where do you see yourself next? What life goals are you pursuing?

My internship this summer will give me my first hands-on experience as an engineer. I expect that I will thoroughly enjoy the problem solving and teamwork that is involved in engineering and will want to continue working as an engineer in the future. Ultimately, I see myself pursuing an engineering managerial role later in my career.

If, for any reason, I learn that engineering is not for me, I will plan to attend medical school to become a doctor. All in all, my biomedical engineering degree opens so many doors for me after I graduate and I know that I will feel fulfilled with whatever path I choose to take.

What is your favorite part about being a Buff?

I have loved being a CU Buff these past four years. The energy on campus is unbeatable, the people are friendly and there are amazing opportunities available for students who look for them.

I recently became a ��ɫ��Ƶ Student Ambassador, responsible for guiding campus tours for prospective students and guardians. I have absolutely loved getting to share my experience and adoration for this school with my tour groups. It has been especially fun to meet students who are applying for or have been admitted into the biomedical engineering program. Since I will be in the first graduating class of biomedical engineering from ��ɫ��Ƶ, it is incredibly exciting to meet some of the students who will follow and be a part of making this program great.

Mia Fox is a rising senior in the Biomedical Engineering Program who is completing an internship this summer with CONMED, a medical device company with a location in Denver. She hopes her innovative work will one day help save lives.

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Student Spotlight: Jair Castillo

Anonymous — Mon, 09 May 2022 18:25:08 +0000

Student Spotlight: Jair Castillo Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 05/09/2022 - 12:25

Rachel Leuthauser

Jair Castillo, PhD student

Jair Castillo is a PhD student studying ultrasound molecular imaging in Professor Mark Borden’s lab. His goal is to help improve preventative healthcare to detect diseases like cancer in the early stages – giving patients better outcomes.

What brought you to the ��ɫ��Ƶ and attracted you to the Biomedical Engineering Program?

I was attracted by the high quality of research being done at ��ɫ��Ƶ. I also liked how the BME program allows you to tailor the classes you need to take towards your research interests. There is only one requirement and everything else is up to you to decide.

Please briefly explain the research you are doing in Professor Borden’s lab.

My research focuses on the area of imaging. More specifically, ultrasound molecular imaging. Basically, I engineer functionalized microbubbles with a gas core that can target a specific receptor in the endothelium. Once flowing in the bloodstream, part of these bubbles attaches to their receptor and remain static for some time while the rest keep flowing. Due to the physical properties of microbubbles, which oscillate when exposed to an ultrasound field, they generate a backscattered energy which is then picked up by the ultrasound transducer. This generates enhanced images with better resolution and contrast. There are many potential applications, such as early detection of cancer, microinflammation and atherosclerosis, among others.

What inspired you to pursue imaging research?

After graduation from college with a bachelor of science in biomedical engineering, I worked in the medical device industry for several years. However, I always found myself wanting to explore new ideas on my own, which is sometimes limited in industry. So, I decided to pursue a PhD since I believe it fosters creativity and promotes the development of new ideas, projects and knowledge. Also, I like teaching, so my goal is to become a professor.

How would you like your work to help society?

I believe in preventive healthcare, specifically trying to prevent the development of a disease by diagnosing it early. That's the reason I am mainly focusing on diagnostics rather than therapeutics. I would like to improve current techniques and approaches that would help doctors detect diseases, such as cancer, at its very early stages where patients can have higher probabilities of a favorable outcome. The reason I love ultrasound is because it's noninvasive, cost-effective, portable and readily available almost everywhere.

What’s your favorite part about being a Buff?

I love the city of Boulder. The weather is great and is an awesome place to develop personally, with many outdoor activities readily available all year. Also, the Buff community is the best. There are a lot of resources available for students to succeed in their academic career, classes offered here are top-notch and the campus is beautiful. My favorite part of being a Buff is, well, being a Buff!

Jair Castillo is a PhD student studying ultrasound molecular imaging in Professor Mark Borden’s lab. His goal is to help improve preventative healthcare to detect diseases like cancer in the early stages – giving patients better outcomes.

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Student Spotlight: Nicole Gunderson

Anonymous — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 20:13:24 +0000

Student Spotlight: Nicole Gunderson Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 03/28/2022 - 14:13

Rachel Leuthauser

Nicole Gunderson is a junior in the Biomedical Engineering Program who is studying human-robot interactions for applications in surgical robots. She is currently conducting research about the development of a novel-path planning algorithm for autonomous vehicles.

Nicole Gunderson, BME Junior

What brought you to the ��ɫ��Ƶ and attracted you to the BME program?

When I was applying to universities, it was important to me that I ended up at a research institution. I was interested in participating in research as an undergraduate to learn what fields I am passionate about within biomedical engineering, which is an incredibly multidisciplinary area of study. Additionally, it was important to me to go to a school that allowed me to cultivate a community within my field. Engineering is a difficult and rigorous field, and it was important to me that the school I chose promotes an uplifting environment - somewhere it isn’t uncommon to see people laughing and smiling in the Engineering Center.

When I began the process of choosing my major in high school, I was fully planning to follow the pre-med track to become a doctor. However, in the last few years of school, I became involved in a robotics team, as well as a science fair where I developed an assistive technology device. Participating in these opportunities made me realize that I wanted a multidisciplinary education, where I would be able to explore my interests in both medicine as well as robotics and mechanical engineering. Although I originally enrolled at ��ɫ��Ƶ as a Chemical and Biological Engineering major, when Biomedical Engineering became available my sophomore year, I switched in almost immediately, knowing that it would give me the multidisciplinary education I was looking for.

Tell us about the research you have been a part of on campus.

I currently conduct research for the Autonomous Robotics and Perception Group within the Intelligent Robotics Laboratory. My work centers around the development of a novel-path planning algorithm for the deployment of autonomous vehicles in human populated environments. Through this laboratory I also developed a communication beacon deployment mechanism and other electromechanical components to assist in the development of a subterranean robotic system for the DARPA Subterranean Final Competition. This project addressed creating accurate odometry and maps in visually degraded environments.

I have also conducted research for the Interactive Robotics and Novel Technologies Laboratory, where I developed a product that explores the relationship between ferrofluid and electromagnets for applications as an assistive technology 'braille tablet' for the visually impaired. I believe that participating in research has been the most influential and beneficial experience I have had so far in my educational career. The opportunity to apply my coursework to the areas of study I am passionate about and hope to pursue in the future has been a truly incredible experience. Additionally, the professors and graduate students I have worked alongside have always been consistently willing to stick their necks out for me, as well as many other undergraduate students that they have worked alongside. The support of the research community has allowed me to achieve so many opportunities that seemed unattainable before getting involved.

DARPA Subterranean Competition

How would you like your work to help society?

The reason I want to pursue a career in this field is because I believe that developing accessible and individualized treatment through the advancement of medical technology is the best way to provide everyone the dignified treatment they deserve. Working within biomedical engineering has been incredible as it has shown me a variety of ways to better patients' lives. No two of my colleagues are interested in the exact same area of work, and yet we all have the same goal of improving treatment methodologies through the advancement of biomedical knowledge.

Where do you see yourself next? What life goals are you pursuing?

I am currently considering either continuing my education through a graduate degree in robotics or a human robot interaction related field, or moving directly into an industry position within these fields.

What’s your favorite part about being a Buff?

I am an out-of-state student from the Seattle area. I moved to Colorado without knowing a single person here and only having visited once. I had heard so many horror stories about having a difficult adjustment period going to college out of state. While it was a tough transition at first, I have been able to develop such a home here. This school is truly so welcoming, with an insane amount of tight knit communities and opportunities for involvement. ��ɫ��Ƶ has pushed me to better myself in so many ways and I feel lucky to have found a school that proved my anxieties about college wrong.

Nicole Gunderson is a junior in the Biomedical Engineering Program who is studying human-robot interactions for applications in surgical robots. She is currently conducting research on the development of a novel-path planning algorithm for autonomous vehicles.

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Student Spotlight: Caitlin Mascio

Anonymous — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 20:43:05 +0000

Student Spotlight: Caitlin Mascio Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 12/01/2021 - 13:43

Rachel Leuthauser

Caitlin Mascio is a junior studying biomedical engineering. She also serves as the social media coordinator for the Biomedical Engineering Society Student Chapter at the ��ɫ��Ƶ. Mascio is a Colorado native who grew up in Highlands Ranch.

What brought you to ��ɫ��Ƶ and attracted you to the BME program?

I came to CU for the beautiful campus and the great engineering program. I was originally in aerospace, but I missed taking biology classes. I love learning about the human body and BME allows me to do so from an engineering perspective.

What biomedical research are you interested in?

I am on the pre-med path and would like to go to medical school for pediatric surgery or obstetrics and gynecology.

Have you participated in internships? How have they helped you?

I am currently working in Professor Sarah Calve's Musculoskeletal Extracellular Matrix Lab at CU, researching how exercise can change the structure of MCL’s extracellular matrix in mice. The independent study has helped me develop fundamental lab skills and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting.

How has the Biomedical Engineering Society impacted your time at CU?

BMES has brought me much closer to the other leaders in my classes. The group has shown me that even when I feel like giving up, there are people who will support me that are in the same boat. We hold each other up.

Caitlin Mascio is a junior studying biomedical engineering who hopes to go to medical school one day. Her interests are in pediatric surgery or obstetrics and gynecology.

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Student Spotlight: Liana Kerr-Layton

Anonymous — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:37:30 +0000

Student Spotlight: Liana Kerr-Layton Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 11/09/2021 - 07:37

Rachel Leuthauser

Liana Kerr-Layton is a junior in Biomedical Engineering Program and serves as the vice president for the Biomedical Engineering Society Student Chapter (BMES) at the ��ɫ��Ƶ. She has always been a Buff who grew up in Boulder.

What brought you to ��ɫ��Ƶ and attracted you to the BME program?

Upon introduction to the College of Engineering, CEAS faculty, Engineering Honors Program (EHP) and the BOLD Center, I learned ��ɫ��Ƶ would not only be a place of academic excellence. It would also be a community focused on inclusion, with a passion for learning and supporting others.

I was intrigued by the multidisciplinary aspect of BME. It allows me to combine my interests instead of only choosing one. Through diverse and rigorous courses, I can broaden my knowledge and feel confident in my ability to excel and face any challenge. I am also grateful for the program directors and coordinators that remain attentive to our academic needs. I appreciate their consistent and personalized guidance and support.

What biomedical research or industry are you most interested in?

Fields that interest me most are biomechanics, bioinstrumentation, medical care and STEM cell research.

Have you participated in internships? How have they helped you?

During my time at ��ɫ��Ƶ, I have had the opportunity to work in an image-guided drug delivery and radiation therapy lab. That research gave me perspective and experience for both my major and possible future aspirations.

Additionally, I interned at the BOLD Center and served as an engineering fellow, peer mentor, and teaching assistant. Each role has allowed me to remain an active member of the inclusive community at ��ɫ��Ƶ.

How has BMES impacted your time at CU?

BMES has helped me grow my effective teamwork, communication and leadership skills. In all situations during my current and future career, I strive to give back to the community by empowering and validating those around me through inclusion, celebrations of diversity, and by facilitating personal, social and academic growth.

Being an active member of BMES has also given me the opportunity to perpetuate a positive and inclusive community in STEM, which I and others can benefit from.

Where do you see yourself going next? What life goals are you pursuing?

I am hoping to continue my education through medical or graduate school. I am also considering working in industry for a few years to gain experience that will help me fully realize my career goals. My main ambition through it all is to remain excited and passionate about whatever goal I am actively pursuing or working towards.

Liana Kerr-Layton is a junior in Biomedical Engineering Program who has dedicated her time to building and supporting ��ɫ��Ƶ's inclusive culture.

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