McAlpine Research Group & Parr Research Group, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant – 3D Printed Spinal Cord

• Pioneered 3D bioprinting techniques for neural, dorsal, ventral, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and artificial spinal cord segments, addressing critical gaps in tissue engineering for paraplegia.
• Optimized large-scale scaffold printing using an ML-based error correction algorithm, increasing production efficiency and precision by over 62%.
• Improved scaffold performance through designed experiments ensuring material properties remained compatible with stem cell integration and created viable structures for biological growth.
• Developed standardized protocols for stem cell printing and extrusion to address reproducibility challenges across experimental runs.

McAlpine Research Group, University of Minnesota

Lead – Invention of 3D Printed Spinal Cord Imaging Device

• Led all CAD efforts for novel implantable spinal window prototypes specifically tailored for in vivo spinal cord imaging.
• Directed the 3D printing fabrication process as the primary point person for rapid prototyping and troubleshooting of imaging device components, including the frame, window, and implantation methodology.
• Identified and selected cost-effective, biocompatible materials for rapid 3D printing, accelerating prototyping timelines while ensuring subject safety and material acceptance post-implantation.
• Performed targeted material analysis to validate compatibility with specific surgical drugs, anatomical constraints, and imaging modality requirements.
• Utilized ANSYS to perform finite element stress analysis (FEA), validating the implant design's structural integrity against buckling under simulated physiological muscle loads post-implantation.

McAlpine Research Group, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant – 3D Printed Microfluidic Channels for Large-Scale Integration

• Implemented and optimized processes for large-scale integration of microfluidic channels using advanced 3D printing techniques.
• Designed and conducted experiments to improve the precision and efficiency of 3D-printed microfluidic microchips for cell imaging, sorting, and detection in cancer imaging and diagnostics.
• Developed protocols to enhance reproducibility and scalability of microfluidic manufacturing.
• Prepared technical reports and presented findings to the research group, peers, external stakeholders, and industry partners.

Earl Bakken Medical Device Center, University of Minnesota

Research Assistant – Invention of Novel Spinal Suturing Device

• Collaborated 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 in vivo simulation test methods, and researched custom polymer compositions for injection molding with improved dimensional tolerancing.
• Authored Consumer & Product Requirement Documentation (CPRD) summarizing all testing efforts for market realization.
• Served as primary point of contact for further experimentation supporting marketing materials and funding applications.
• Oversaw planning of capital table discussions for future product plans and distribution of raised funding.

Engineers Without Borders – University of Minnesota Chapter

President (April 2024 – April 2025)

• Provided high-level project management and strategic direction for three cross-functional engineering teams, overseeing design, prototyping, and execution of international water and sanitation infrastructure projects.
• Managed project budgets totaling $340,000, presenting to donors, Rotary Clubs, and external stakeholders to secure funding and ensure projects met technical specifications and timelines.
• Mentored project leads, resolved complex engineering and logistical problems, and facilitated communication between international NGO partners, professional mentors, and student teams.

Project Lead – East Africa Project (January 2022 – April 2024)

• Led the East Africa group in assisting rural villages with water access and improved sanitation infrastructure.
• Worked with international partners to draft contractual documents between the chapter and partnered NGOs.
• Coordinated fundraising and finance allocations to develop a full project budget and lifecycle plan.

Science and Engineering Student Board, University of Minnesota

Director of Academic Affairs Committee (April 2023 – April 2024)

• Advocated for students within the College of Science and Engineering through surveys and policy implementation.
• Collaborated with student advocacy groups to amplify student voices to administration.
• Created opportunities for students to engage with professionals through panels and organized events.

Director of Sustainability Committee (April 2022 – April 2023)

• Led a team of students advocating for environmental improvement within the university community.
• Collaborated with the Minnesota Student Association to enforce campus waste-reduction policies.
• Advocated to Dean's offices to amplify student and faculty voices and drive positive institutional change.

College of Science & Engineering STEM Mentor

Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Minnesota

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