McAlpine Research Group, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant - Development of 3D Printable Spinal Cord

• Advanced regenerative medicine by pioneering 3D bioprinting techniques for neural, dorsal, ventral, and induced pluripotent stem cells and artificial spinal cord segments, addressing critical gaps in tissue engineering for paraplegia.
• Optimized large-scale printing of scaffolding structures using advanced 3D printing methods, increasing production efficiency and precision by over 62% using a machine learning algorithm to correct human errors effectively.
• Improved scaffold performance by designing experiments that enhanced accuracy and reliability, ensuring material properties remained constant and complemented the stem cells, creating a viable structure for biological growth.
• Addressed reproducibility challenges by analyzing data and developing standardized protocols for stem cell printing and extrusion.

Research Assistant - Rapid 3D Printable Microfuidic System

• Implement and optimize processes for large-scale integration of microfluidic channels using advanced 3D printing methods.
• Design and conduct experiments to improve the precision and efficiency of 3D-printed microfluidic microchips.
• Analyze data and develop protocols to enhance the reproducibility and scalability of microfluidic manufacturing.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to the research group, peers, and external stakeholders.

Earl Bakken Medical Device Center, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant - Invention of Novel Suturing Device

• Collaborate on developing and testing a new medical device to address issues identified by a surgical industry professional.
• Conducted tensile tests on 3D printed materials, developed complex in vivo simulation test methods, and researched custom polymer compositions for smooth injection molding and improved dimensional tolerancing to ensure lower error margins.
• Work on authoring Consumer & Product Requirement Documentation, summarizing all testing efforts for market realization.
• Lead further experimentation for marketing material and requirements of funding applications.
• Overseeing the planning of capital table discussion for future product plans and distribution of funding raised.

Engineers Without Borders- University of Minnesota Chapter

President

• Lead decision-making processes for project planning and execution for all three project groups encompassed by the chapter.
• Represent the chapter at donor events, fostering relationships and securing funding for ongoing and future projects.
• Worked closely with Rotary Clubs nationwide to increase student volunteering opportunities and secure project funding for two international and one local project summing up to $340,000.
• Oversee and guide team members to ensure successful project outcomes and alignment with organizational goals.

Project Lead - East Africa Project

• Led East Africa group to assist small villages in rural East Africa meet their demands for water and improved sanitation.
• Engaged with the chapter’s professional mentors to gain knowledge and inspiration on various aspects of the project.
• Worked with international partners in drafting contractual documents between our chapter and partnered NGO’s.
• Collaborated with peers in fundraising and finance allocations to create a full budget outline for the project.

Science and Engineering Student Board, University of Minnesota

Director of Academic Affairs Committee

• Advocated for students within the College of Science and Engineering through student surveys and policy implementation.
• Collaborated with multiple other student-advocating student groups to ensure that student voices are amplified to administration.
• Created opportunities for students to engage with professionals through panels and events.

Director of Sustainability Committee

• Led a team of environmentally conscious students in advocating for improvement within the university community.
• Collaborated with the Minnesota Student Association to ensure reduced wastage through policy enforcement on campus.
• Created opportunities for students to engage with professionals in sustainable development-related fields.
• Advocated for students and faculty to the Dean's offices to amplify the students’ voices and ensure positive change.

College of Science & Engineering STEM Mentor

Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Minnesota

• Tutored high school students from underlying social, cultural, and economic local communities on experiences in STEM.
• Illuminated several young minds on the various aspects of STEM and inspired students to consider a future in STEM.
• Pioneered lab sessions to give students a more immersive STEM experience by integrating hands-on experiences.

Plumb Bob, University of Minnesota

Officer

• Coordinated and collaborated for College of Science and Engineering week.
• Determined events that would be executed with funds and resources available.
• Oversaw and ran media and marketing for the college-wide event.