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Major

Chemical and Biological Engineering

Awards

College of Engineering and Applied Science Research Award

Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering Distinguished Peer Mentor Award

Post-graduation plans

Gain research experience in CRISPR-based therapeutics at Editas Medicine; start a PhD in chemical engineering within the next two years.

Associated Lab

Assistant Professor Laurel Hind
Immunoengineering Lab.

Tell me about your research

How could your research make a difference in everyday life?

One way my research could have an impact is by treating inflammation caused by changes in tissue mechanics. For example, fibrosis is a disease marked by excessive accumulation of fibrous tissue with current treatments mainly target fibroblasts through anti-fibrotic medications. However, studies show that neutrophils also play a role in recruiting fibroblasts; so, our research on neutrophil-mechanic interactions can lead to the innovation of more effective therapies that target both neutrophils and fibroblasts. Broadly, our research can also support the development of better immunotherapies, which are becoming increasingly common for treating a variety of diseases.

What keeps you busy outside of research?

I have been a course assistant for several core department courses. During my first two years, I was also a notes scribe through ����ֱ�� Boulder's disability services program. Professionally, I had the opportunity to work part-time at a biotech company learning about translational research in the gene-therapy space. Outside of academics, I enjoy photography, reading and paddleboarding. I have also recently taken an interest in wheel throwing pottery!

What is your favorite ����ֱ�� Boulder memory?

My research experiences have been invaluable, both professionally and personally. They’ve not only sharpened my communication skills and fueled my curiosity, but also revealed the striking parallels between cellular mechanisms and the emotional fabric of life. I'm constantly amazed by the thought that all our actions and emotions stem from molecules simply bumping into each other—yet it’s that very molecular chaos that gives rise to our ability to ask, “why?”

I also greatly enjoyed living in the dorms my freshman year. Coming from a culturally and academically homogenous high school, I enjoyed the diversity living in the dorms offered; it enabled me to expand my mindset.��

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

What is your biggest piece of advice for future engineering buffs?

Explore anything and everything! Spend time outside on nice days, get involved in campus activities and embrace life at ����ֱ�� beyond the classroom. Regardless of your interests, try something new, academically or otherwise, to make the most out of college. Worst case, you'll discover something you don't like!

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