Research & Leadership

AI Steel Structure Studio

Streamlit-based conceptual steel building generator

A browser-based concept generator that turns plain-English building prompts into a configurable steel structure package with 3D preview, conceptual drawings, BOM exports, and editable section catalogs.

• Generates a 3D browser preview with primary steel, rafters, purlins, girts, cladding surfaces, bracing, connection elements, and slab geometry.
• Exports STL, OBJ, DXF, SVG, BOM CSV, and JSON packages for review, downstream development, and client-facing concept work.
• Supports free built-in prompt parsing plus optional Ollama, OpenAI, and Gemini extraction backends.
• Uses editable steel, purlin, brace, and roofing catalogs so it can grow into a deeper CAD and estimating workflow.

McAlpine & Parr Research Groups, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant — 3D Printed Spinal Cord

• Pioneered 3D bioprinting techniques for neural, dorsal, ventral, and induced pluripotent stem cells and artificial spinal cord segments.
• Optimized large-scale scaffold printing with an ML-based error-correction algorithm, increasing production efficiency and precision by more than 62 percent.
• Improved scaffold performance through designed experiments balancing structural behavior with biological compatibility.
• Developed standardized protocols for stem cell printing and extrusion to improve reproducibility across runs.

McAlpine Research Group, University of Minnesota

Lead — 3D Printed Spinal Cord Imaging Device

• Led CAD efforts for a novel implantable spinal window tailored for in vivo spinal cord imaging.
• Directed 3D-print fabrication as primary point person for rapid prototyping and troubleshooting of the frame, window, and implantation methodology.
• Selected cost-effective biocompatible materials for rapid printing while ensuring safety and implantation feasibility.
• Used ANSYS finite element analysis to validate structural integrity against physiological muscle loads.

McAlpine Research Group, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant — 3D Printed Microfluidic Channels

• Implemented and optimized processes for large-scale integration of microfluidic channels using advanced 3D-printing techniques.
• Designed and conducted experiments to improve precision and efficiency of 3D-printed microfluidic chips for imaging, sorting, and cancer diagnostics.
• Developed protocols to improve reproducibility and scalability of microfluidic manufacturing.
• Prepared technical reports and presented findings to research, academic, and industry audiences.

Earl Bakken Medical Device Center, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant — Novel Spinal Suturing Device

• Collaborated on development and testing of a new medical device responding to needs identified by a surgical industry professional.
• Conducted tensile tests on 3D-printed materials, developed in vivo simulation methods, and researched custom polymer compositions for injection molding.
• Authored consumer and product requirement documentation summarizing testing for market realization.
• Oversaw capital-table planning discussions for future product strategy and funding allocation.

Engineers Without Borders, UMN Chapter

President (2024–25) · Project Lead, East Africa (2022–24)

• Provided high-level project management and strategic direction for three cross-functional teams delivering international water and sanitation infrastructure projects.
• Managed project budgets totaling $340,000 and presented to donors, Rotary Clubs, and external stakeholders.
• Mentored project leads and coordinated communication across NGO partners, mentors, and student teams.
• Led the East Africa group supporting rural villages with water access and improved sanitation infrastructure.

Science & Engineering Student Board, UMN

Director of Academic Affairs · Director of Sustainability

• Advocated for students in the College of Science and Engineering through surveys and policy implementation.
• Created opportunities for students to engage with professionals through panels and events.
• Led a team advocating for environmental improvement, collaborating with the Minnesota Student Association on campus waste-reduction policies.

College of Science & Engineering STEM Mentor

Cancer & Cardiovascular Research Center, UMN

• Tutored high school students from underserved communities on STEM experiences and career pathways.
• Inspired students through hands-on lab sessions, creating a more immersive STEM experience.

Plumb Bob, University of Minnesota

Officer

• Coordinated events for College of Science and Engineering Week.
• Determined events to be executed within available funds and resources.
• Oversaw media and marketing for the college-wide annual event.