Undergraduate Students

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2025

Michael Ballenger was born and raised in Germany and moved to the United States in 2020. He served as a medic in the U.S. Army before transitioning to studying biotechnology at Bunker Hill Community College in Boston. Michael is passionate about studying the intricacies of molecular life and aims to use his knowledge to contribute to the eradication of diseases. In his free time, he enjoys riding his bike and going for walks with his dog, Heidi.

REU Project Title: Microvascularization of cardiac tissue

Mentor: Kit Parker

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754

I am from Navajo Technical University currently on my 2nd year as a chemistry student and I am from a small community called Standing Rock, NM and I hope to use my chemistry degree to make a difference in my community.

REU Project Title: Portable ten channel high voltage power supply for HASEL actuators

Mentors: Rob Wood, Mady Corrigan

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

Hello! My Name is Lynette Castillo. I'm Navajo, and I come from New Mexico.

Project: Imaging turquoise of different origins

REU Project Title: Imaging turquoise of different origins

Mentors: Kathryn Hollar, Mac Hathaway, Thiagarajan Soundappan

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Hello, my name is Karen Dan. I am majoring in Culinary Arts and Bachelor's of Science and Chemistry.

Project: Imaging of corn pollen and developing STEM lessons for the Magic 8 foods

REU Project Title: Palynology and 4 significant Navajo culture foods

Mentors: Kathryn Hollar, Mac Hathaway, Thiagarajan Soundappan

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

Hello! My name is Hunter Reidhead I am a current student at Navajo Technical University I am studying Electrical Engineering. My current goals are to continue my education and to gain experience. For my hobbies, I enjoy running, cooking, anime and expanding my knowledge. The Harvard REU program has provided me with my first research experience and I am truly grateful for this summer experience.

Project: Microfluidic encapsulation of Navajo Tea

REU Project Title: Native American tea/herbs bioactive extraction and their antimicrobial effects

Mentors: David Weitz, Yan Liu, Sana Rahim, Robinson Tom

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

I am from the Navajo reservation in northern Arizona. I grew up in a small town on a farm with my family. After high school I did not know I wanted to do, so I worked construction until one day I wanted to change that.

Project: High throughput intracellular delivery

REU Project Title: Anti-diabetic effects of Native American herbal plants

Mentors: Joanna Aizenberg, Eric Mazur, Reena Paink

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Antonio Valencia is The rising Sophomore at the Navajo Technical University located in Crownpoint New Mexico. He is majoring in Automotive Technology, and aims to bring improvements in manufacturing of future automobiles through research of materials, specifically with metals. He is originally from Pinon AZ and raised in and out of the Salt River Indian Community of AZ, where he started running and hasn't stopped. Antonio enjoys discussing science fiction and ubiquitous culture of the new world in his pocket time. Antonio explores material science/engineering in any way how and has previous experience researching experimental passive safety systems for automobiles, he seeks to obtain a Ph.D. in Metallurgy science in his future. You can find him assisting faculty of the community in cleaning and repair, or on his runs around town.

REU Project Title: Mechanoreponsive liquid metal coreshells coupled with LCEs for soft electronics/robotics

Mentors: Jennifer Lewis, Mustafa Abdelrahman, Jalilah Muhammad

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Vasumathi Venkat is a rising senior studying Electrical and Computer Engineering at Princeton University. She focuses on primarily reinforcement learning and controls for robotic systems but is also interested in exploring fabrication and control of robotic systems with unconventional methods of locomotion and manipulation. In her free time, she likes watching F1 and working on her digital art.

Project: Soft Robotic Particles

REU Project Title: Soft robotic particles

Mentors: Joanna Aizenberg, Hamed Almohammadi

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

Kevin is a rising junior at Boston University majoring in Biomedical Engineering. He is passionate about translational research that bridges science and patient care to improve health outcomes. Kevin is currently exploring future paths, including pursuing a Ph.D. or an M.D. Outside of academics, he enjoys going to the gym, watching TV shows, and spending time with friends and family.

Project: Self-organizing active soft matter

REU Project Title: Lysis-driven transformations in microbial active matter

Mentors: Vinothan Manoharan, Stefania Ketzetzi, Francesca Soddu

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

My name is Joel Yazzie. I’m Navajo and recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Navajo Technical University, where I focused on Advanced Manufacturing and Material Science. I’ve always been interested in hands on work and figuring out how things are made and improved, especially through additive manufacturing. I plan to keep learning and growing in the fields of mechanical and material science so I can be part of developing new technologies and creating practical solutions for real world problems.

Project:

REU Project Title: A liquid building wrapping capable of dynamically sending heat to outer space (with Eric Garza)

Mentors: Joanna Aizenberg, Raphael Kay

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

2024

Hello, my name is Cody Begay. I'm from Gallup, New Mexico and I'm Navajo. I go to school at Navajo Technical University majoring in Industrial Engineering.

REU Project Title: Soft robotics on Navajo Nation (with Bradley Thomas, Wayant Billey, and Jyren Sam)

REU Project Title: Electrochemistry (with Makeiyla Begay and Justin Platero)

Mentors: Thiagarajan Soundappan, Kathryn Hollar

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754

Zezo Beshir is a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania, going down the pre-med tract. He plans to pursue his interest in cardiovascular surgery after med-school. Outside of academics, he is a shot-putter on the track and field team.

REU Project Title: Comparing maturation phenotypes of human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes

Mentors: vin Shani, Julia Deinsberger, Kevin Kit Parker

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

My name is Wayant Billey I am from a rural part of Standing Rock, NM. I am majoring in the new B.S in Chemistry degree program at Navajo Technical University. I would like to complete my degree then go onwards to graduate studies and pursue my PhD in chemistry. With this degree I would like to further my studies into Biofuel such as hydrogen fuel and other types of renewable resources. My hobbies are working/tuning vehicles especially Honda's or my own projects, being outdoors, tending to my livestock (hauling water, hauling hay... etc.) on my ranch and listening to music.

Project: Soft Robotics and its Potential on the Navajo Reservation

REU Project Title: Soft robotics on Navajo Nation (with Codey Begay, Bradley Thomas, and Jyren Sam)

REU Project Title: Dielectric Actuators

Mentors: David Weitz, Robinson Tom, Yan Liu, Rohan Thakur, Chunuan Liu

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

Steph is a sophomore at Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint New Mexico which is located on the Navajo reservation. She is majoring in mechanical engineering and minoring in mathematics. She has been working in the STEM field for over 3 years including her senior year in high school where she was participating in the STEM program. This program helped her participate with NASA and Harvard doing research for soft robotics. In her free time, she loves to sleep, enjoys anime, and loves Korean drama.

Project: Liquid Crystal Elastomer

REU Project Title: Liquid crystal elastomer - liquid metal composites for responsive soft matter (with Antonio Valencia)

Mentors: Raphael Kay, Joanna Aizenberg

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Jack Emiliano Hansen is a rising Junior at California Polytechnic State University studying Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Mechatronics and plans to pursue a PhD afterward. In his free time, he enjoys working on graphic design, hiking, and spending time with his friends and family.

Project: Testing Equipment for Dynamic Fluidic Window Systems

REU Project Title: Testing equipment for dynamic fluidic window systems (with Berk Kasimcan)

Mentors: Raphael Kay, Joanna Aizenberg

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

Sanjana Iyer is a second year molecular biology and biochemistry student at Rutgers University, New Brunswick. She hopes to go on to graduate school and pursue scientific research. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing bad poetry, and learning new art skills.

Project: Characterizing the long-term effects of extracellular matrix viscoelasticity on dendritic cells

REU Project Title: Characterizing the long term effects of extracellular matrix viscoelasticity on dendritic cells

Mentors: Wei-Hung Jung, David Mooney

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Richard is a rising junior from Harlingen, Texas. He studies Molecular and Cell Biology at Vanderbilt University and hopes to continue research while pursuing an M.D. Alongside his studies, he is a cadet in Vanderbilt’s GO GOLD Battalion Army ROTC. During his free time, Richard likes to watch TV, run, hike, and build Lego sets.

Project: Calcium Propagation and Twitch Stress in hiPSCs-Cardiomyocytes (CMs) for Comparison to Fabry Disease Derived hiPSCs

Mentors: Julia Deinsberger, Kevin Kit Parker

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Hi! My name is Margaret Miao. I am currently studying Mechanical Engineering at Princeton University with minors in bioengineering and material science. My research interests include biomaterials and tissue regeneration as well as medical technologies for implants and prosthesis. Outside of academics, I powerlift, draw and paint, play my violin, and love to cook!

Project: Durable Hydrogel for Bioprinting Artificial Tissues and Organs

REU Project Title: Durable hydrogel for bioprinting artificial tissues and organs

Mentors: Travis Busbee, Jennifer Lewis

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

I am a driven and ambitious individual from Crownpoint, New Mexico, with a passion for pursuing a career in electrical engineering. A recent graduate of Crownpoint High School and Navajo Technical University, I am committed to education and have already gained valuable experience in various fields. At Navajo Technical University, I interned with the NSF PREM Ventures Department, where I worked as a Student Research Intern and developed strong research and analytical skills. I also held positions as a Temporary Maintenance Worker and Engineering Summer Intern, demonstrating my ability to work in a variety of settings. In my free time, I am involved in humanitarian projects in Mexico, showing my commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

Project: How can Sodium Alginate be used to teach High school students and educators about encapsulating food and medicine?

REU Project Title: Microfluidics and assessing antibacterial properties of Native medicines (with Kendrick Thompson, Hunter Oliver Yellowhair, Hunter Reidhead)

Mentors: Kathryn Hollar, Thiagarajan Soundappan

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

My name is Jyren Sam, I am from a small town in New Mexico called Crownpoint. My dream is to further our world into a better world where we aren't hurting our planet and finding new ways to create and manage many new ways of our way of life. With my research going further and further out every day I can feel myself absorb every ounce of knowledge I can have and help further our world into a new age.

Project: Soft Robotics and its Potential on the Navajo Reservation

REU Project Title: Soft robotics on Navajo Nation (with Bradley Thomas, Codey Begay, and Wayant Billey)

Mentors: Thiagarajan Soundappan, Kathryn Hollar

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

Hello, I am Bradley Thomas, a 25-year-old student at Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, NM. I am pursuing my associate's degree in applied science with a major in chemical engineering. My hobbies are traveling, fishing, and gaming.

Project: Soft Robotics and its Potential on the Navajo Reservation

REU Project Title: Soft robotics on Navajo Nation (with Codey Begay, Wayant Billey, and Jyren Sam)

Mentors: Kathryn Hollar, Thiagarajan Soundappan

Funding: NSF MRSEC @ Harvard DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

My name is Kendrick Thompson and I am from Chinle, Arizona. Which is located on the Navajo reservation in the north east part of Arizona. I grew up taking pride in the environment where I live that led me into the biology field. Each day learning something has always been a passion of mine learning.

Project: How can Sodium Alginate be used to teach High school students and educators about encapsulating food and medicine?

REU Project Title: Microfluidics and assessing antibacterial properties of Native medicines (with Hunter Oliver Yellowhair and Hunter Reidhead)

Mentors: Robinson Tom, Thiagarajan Soundappan

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Antonio Valencia is The rising freshmen at the Navajo Technical University located in Crownpoint New Mexico. He is majoring in the The Automotive Technology Sector, with certificates in Osha and 3G. He is originally from Pinon AZ and raised in and out of the Salt River Indian Community of AZ, where he started running and hasn't stopped. Antonio enjoys discussing science fiction and ubiquitous culture of the new world in his pocket time. Antonio explores material science/engineering in any way how, and he seeks to obtain a Ph.D. in Metallurgy science in his future. You can find him assisting faculty of the community in cleaning and repair, or on his runs around town.

REU Project Title: Liquid crystal elastomer - liquid metal composites for responsive soft matter (with Stephanecia Charlie)

Mentors: Mustafa Abdelrahman, Jennifer Lewis

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Amaya Walker is a junior majoring in chemical engineering at Florida State University. She has been contributing to research at National High Magnetic Field Laboratory focusing on 3D bioprinting. Outside of her professional environment, Amaya enjoys shopping, playing tennis, hanging out with her kitten, Gus, and cooking.

Project: Controlling Protein Release from Alginate Hydrogels with Carbohydrate Binding Modules (CBM)

REU Project Title: Controlling protein release from alginate hydrogels with carbohydrate binding modules (CBM)

Mentors: Blake Hanan, David Mooney

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

I come from Many Farms, Arizona and I am a proud member of the Navajo tribe. I am the second youngest among my siblings. I believe that with hard work and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams. Despite being born with left microtia, I have never let it hinder my ability to learn or work. Although it may pose challenges while listening to others, I assure you that I am attentive and always strive to deliver my best. Currently, I am pursuing a dual degree in Chemistry and Business Administration. I am motivated to pursue my path in life with an eagerness for knowledge and personal growth. I am determined to utilize the knowledge I gain along the way to make a positive impact back home.

Project: "Nááts'íilid" Rainbow Chocolate

REU Project Title: “Nááts'íilid” (Rainbow) chocolate

Mentors: Thiagarajan Soundappan, Kathryn Hollar

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

LinkedIn Profile

Hello, my name is Oliver Yellowhair and I am a returning REU student. I am a sophomore and a biology major at Navajo Technical University. I'm looking for innovative ways to help my community and the Navajo Nation.

Project: How can Sodium Alginate be used to teach High school students and educators about encapsulating food and medicine?

REU Project Title: Microfluidics and assessing antibacterial properties of Native medicines (with Kendrick Thompson and Hunter Reidhead)

Mentors: Robinson Tom, Thiagarajan Soundappan

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

2023

Julien is a first-year bioengineering student at the University of California, Los Angeles. The multitude of real-life impacts bioengineering has on society has captivated him deeply. Looking ahead, he plans to further his knowledge in engineering by pursuing graduate studies. In his free time, he finds joy in indulging his creative side through piano, dance, and listening to music.

REU Project Title: Photo-emergent locomotion in an artificial millipede

Mentors: Joanna Aizenberg, Jacopo Movilli, Milan Wilborn

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Alsyl is a current second year studying Electrical Engineering at Chabot College, a community college in the SF Bay Area. He also currently interns at the Stanford Nanofabrication Facility, and loves exploring nanotechnology and its fabrication. He hopes to transfer to a 4-year to attain a Bachelor's degree. In his free time he loves to hike, backpack, go the gym, and do photography.

REU Project Title: Fabrication of epsilon-near-zero metamaterial with anomalous refraction

Mentors: Federico Capasso, Maryna Meretska

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

My name is Drealle Estrada, I am a rising junior at Navajo Technical University, majoring in Biology. I am from Chinle, Arizona and part of the Navajo tribe. I plan to pursue a career in healthcare upon the completion of my undergraduate studies. I enjoy going outdoors, reading, and baking in my spare time.

REU Project Title: Diné tea extract-encapsulating microgels: microfluidics-based fabrication and their antibacterial effects

Mentors: David Weitz, Robinson Tom, Yan Liu, Rohan Thakur, Chunuan Liu

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Originally from NYC, Ayelet is a physics major with a love for interdisciplinary study. Within the Yale STEM community, Ayelet has served as the co-president of Women in Physics and the Yale Undergraduate Quantum Computing Group. Ayelet is currently a member of the Windham Campbell Literary Prize Student Committee and a tutor at New Haven Reads. Looking towards the coming academic year, Ayelet is excited to be a Froco, a mentor for the incoming Class of 2027. Alongside family and friends, Ayelet enjoys exploring new cities, museums, and films.

REU Project Title: The forward problem of elastic sheet growth

Mentors: L. Mahadevan, Lucy Liu

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Ethan is a freshman at Navajo Technical University studying for a Bachelors in Additive Manufacturing Engineering Technology. Originating from Navajo, enjoys the outdoors, swimming, basketball and food. Hopes to change the world in small ways one at a time.

REU Project Title: STEM kits and educational immersion for students

Mentors: Conor Walsh, Nicholas Bira

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

My name is Alena Morrissette and I'm an upcoming sophomore at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Currently I am studying Biomedical Engineering and pursuing a concentration in Neural Engineering. I am also apart of the DuSable Scholars program for Black and Native American students in STEM at UIC. My goal is to further my understanding of Bioengineering.

REU Project Title: Biomimetic swimming actuators via dynamic Gaussian shape morphs

Mentors: Joanna Aizenberg, Milan Wilborn

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Dawn San Luis is a Materials Science Engineering student at the University of Central Florida. She was born and raised in the Philippines. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, work out, go to the beach, cook, scuba diving, fishing, and traveling.

REU Project Title: Understanding soft matter for manipulating light and heat

Mentors: Joanna Aizenberg, Raphael Kay, Jacopo Movilli

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

I am from Many Farms, AZ and I am a Navajo Technical University student located at the Chinle, AZ site. I am a double major for an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and a Bachelor in Biology. I aim to earn my MD/Ph.D. and become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist and experience and gain knowledge about being an RN in the Emergency Room. In my free time, I love spending quality time with my family and I enjoy hiking and exploring national parks.

REU Project Title: Diné tea extract-encapsulating microgels: microfluidics-based fabrication and their antibacterial effects

Mentors: David Weitz, Robinson Tom, Yan Liu, Rohan Thakur, Chuanhuan Liu

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Christopher's dream of improving lives through medical innovation was sparked during childhood after his father, Rob, suffered a crippling heart attack. Luckily, angioplasty and a series of stents saved his father and reunited their family. For years Christopher’s dreams of medical innovation lay dormant, but, gradually, inspired by his experiences scouting, leading Marines, and serving his community in Orange County, NY, Christopher’s visions of improving medicine strengthened. Now, with a fully-fledged focus on improving lives worldwide with novel biotechnologies, Christopher looks forward to drawing strength from this non-traditional background.

During his service as a Marine KC-130T Flight Engineer, from the Arctic to the Equator, Christopher enjoyed talking with folks across the globe. From these conversations, a clear commonality appeared; everyone sought the best for their community. Naturally, he garnered a cliché yet motivating realization; we are all in this together. We all seek the health and happiness of our people.

In honor of the folks who have shaped Christopher's understanding of the world—those who have crossed his path, thus altering its trajectory forever—he vows to eternalize their influence. With their guidance (and a touch of luck), his research will improve the human experience worldwide.

REU Project Title: Cyborg cardiac tissues with embedded electronics for intratissue recording of extracellular action potentials

Mentors: Kevin Kit Parker, Michael Peters, Justin Benton

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Katelyn Wilson is from Crownpoint, New Mexico. She is a recent graduate in the Biology program at Navajo Technical University located in Crownpoint, New Mexico. She wants to apply what she learned back to the Navajo Nation. She enjoys playing mobile games and on her free time she enjoys playing volleyball and tending to her family's livestock.

REU Project Title: Bending dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs)

Mentors: David Clarke, Nikhil Deliwala

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

Ling Xu is a rising senior at the University of Pennsylvania studying mechanical engineering and mathematics. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. after graduation. In her free time, she enjoys playing badminton, trying new foods, and painting.

REU Project Title: Design space exploration and simulation for educational origami grippers

Mentors: Conor Walsh, Nicholas Bira

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754

My name is Oliver Yellowhair. I am currently a student at Navajo Technical University. I am pursuing a Nursing degree with a minor in civil engineering. I am an enrolled Navajo with aspirations to fulfill my goals and give back to the community as a registered nurse. My mentor is my professor, Franklin Maloba. I am aiming for higher education to help younger generations to pursue their dreams and education as well.

REU Project Title: Diné tea extract-encapsulating microgels: microfluidics-based fabrication and their antibacterial effects

Mentors: David Weitz, Robinson Tom, Yan Liu, Rohan Thakur, Chuanhuan Liu

Funding: NSF MRSEC DMR-2011754 and NSF PREM NTU DMR-2122195

2022

Zabari is a recent graduate of Navajo Technical University, class of 2022. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biology degree and has plans of pursuing a postgraduate degree in Microbiology. She is Diné (Navajo) and African American. Kinyaa'áanii nishłį́ Nahiłii bashishchiin Kinłichii'nii dashicheii Nahiłii dashinalí. This means she is Towering House Clan born for the African Americans. She is from Torreon, NM but grew up predominantly in Houston, TX. She has dreams of exploring research and how traditional Navajo culture can be incorporated into science. In her free time she enjoys spending time with animals, singing, and traveling.

REU Project Title: Developing a Novel Droplet Sorting Device Using Electrophoresis

Mentors: Robinson Tom, Rohan Thakur

Funding: PREM NTU NSF DMR-2122195 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

REU Project Title: Wearable soft robotic gripper

Mentors: Lucas Gerez, Harrison Young

Funding: PREM NTU NSF DMR-2122195 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Leonardo Claure is a rising senior at Emory University where he is majoring in Biology. After graduation, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. In his free time he enjoys making pottery, playing basketball, and traveling.

REU Project Title: Tissue Embedded Flexible Nanoelectronics to Capture Development in Cyborg Brain Organoids

Mentors: Qiang Li

Funding: MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

REU Project Title: Microfluidics: Droplet Formation

Mentors: Bobby Haney

Funding: MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

REU Project Title: 3D Printed Lattices for Optimized Electrodes Design

Mentors: Dylan Barber

Funding: PREM NTU NSF DMR-2122195 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

Layla James is a freshman at the Navajo Technical University. She is majoring in biology and plans on pursuing a PhD in Biochemistry or Biomedical science. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, listening to music and reading fiction novels.

REU Project Title: Integrating nanoplasmonic-based heating with digital droplet PCR

Mentors: Yang Wang, Jean Carlos Serrano Flores

Funding: PREM NTU NSF DMR-2122195 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

Christina Perry is a senior at Southern University and A&M College, majoring in Chemistry. After graduation, she plans to pursue MD. Outside of academics, she is passionate about spending time with her family, baking, and community service.

REU Project Title: Effects of nixtamalization on the physical properties and nutrient content in various corns

Mentors: Kathryn Hollar

Funding: CREST MRSEC NSF HRD-1736136 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

is a rising senior at University of New Mexico studying biology. He continues his research in electrochemistry at Navajo Technical University during the semester under the direction of Dr. Thiagarajan Soundappan. He plans on pursuing a career in medicine. In his spare time he likes to take walks, and admire the scenery.

REU Project Title: Investigating the rheological properties of graphene ink For 3-D printed battery electrodes

Mentors: Dylan Barber, Jennifer Lewis

Funding: PREM NTU NSF DMR-2122195 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Mohammed is a rising senior at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, where he is majoring in Mechanical Engineering with Robotics and Mathematics minors. He is very interested and passionate about Medical Robotics and Unmanned aerial systems. Going on road trips is his favorite thing to do.

REU Project Title: Fabrication of elastomer cylindrical thin shells for soft robotics

Mentors: Yang Yi

Funding: MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Hunter Shepard is a senior currently attending Southern University and A&M College located in Baton Rouge, LA, majoring in Mathematics and Physics with a concentration in Mathematics. Hunter considers himself an upcoming Scientist but also an educator at heart. In the future, he plans to attend graduate school and teach STEM in both secondary & higher education sectors.

REU Project Title: Identifying crystal particle structures and modifying with noise to identify fluctuations

Mentors: Will Wang

Funding: CREST MRSEC NSF HRD-1736136 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

LinkedIn Profile

Tionna Tapaha is from Farmington, NM and attends Navajo Technical University. She is majoring in Biology and is expected to graduate in Fall 2022. She hopes to continue her education and obtain her Ph.D. and MD and become a dermatologist. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, running, and traveling.

REU Project Title: Developing a novel droplet sorting device using electrophoresis

Mentors: Robinson Tom, Rohan Thakur

Funding: PREM NTU NSF DMR-2122195 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

Katelyn Wilson is Navajo and her clans are the Tangle Clan, Start of the Red Streak People Clan, Towering House Clan and Salt People clan. She is from Becenti, New Mexico and she recently graduated this spring of 2022 with her Bachelors in Science for Biology.

REU Project Title: Integrating nanoplasmonic-based heating with digital droplet PCR

Mentors: Yang Wang, Jean Carlos Serrano Flores

Funding: PREM NTU NSF DMR-2122195 and MRSEC NSF DMR-2011754

2019

is a senior at Southern University and A&M College studying mathematics and physics. She is a LS-LAMP, Timbuktu, and Honors College scholar. After graduation she plans to obtain her PhD. In her free time she enjoys playing tennis and volleyball, listening to music, reading, and eating sweets.

REU Project Title: Study of Chalcogenide Thin Film Materials for Applications in Reconfigurable Electronics using Machine Learning Methods

Mentors: Joost Vlassak, Gayatri Perlin

Funding: MRSEC

LinkedIn Profile

attended the Rochester Institute of Technology where he majored in Mechanical Engineering Technology and minored in Psychology. He would like to work in the industry and eventually teach. In his free time, he enjoys learning about history, psychology as well as climbing and camping in the great outdoors. He successfully graduated in 2021, and is a Mechanical Engineer at GE Healthcare working on mechanical components at GE Healthcare with experience in modeling heat transfer using FEA, as well as establishing testing procedures and equipment for use in lab, and a working knowledge of plastics and polymer behaviors. Currently have my Six Sigma Green Belt and have a passion for LEAN thinking and innovative product design.

REU Project Title: Applications of Soft Robotics

Mentors: George Whitesides, Jeff Rawson

Funding: REU Site

LinkedIn Profile

graduated Smith College in 2021, majored in Chemistry, and seeks to pursue an MD or MD/Ph.D. degree after graduation. Outside of research, she enjoys fencing, volunteering, and trying out new recipes with her friends.

REU Project Title: Cytokine-Encapsulating Backpacks for Regulating Cellular Phenotypes

Mentors: Jennifer Lewis, Sebastien Uzel, Mark Skylar-Scott

Funding: Wyss

LinkedIn Profile

is from Charlotte, NC. He graduated from North Carolina State University in 2019 majoring in Materials Science and Engineering with a biomaterials concentration. He plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University in the Heilshorn Biomaterials group, and then found a company. In his free time, he enjoys reading, hiking, and traveling.

REU Project Title: Cellular Backpacks for Enhancing Pro-inflammatory Phenotypes in Adoptive Macrophage Therapies

Mentors: Samir Mitragotri, C. Wyatt Shields IV, Lily Wang

Funding: Wyss

LinkedIn Profile

Apryl Begay

is an engineering student at Chandler-Gilbert Community College and plans to attend graduate school for Physics or Engineering. He is a veteran of the U.S. Navy submarine force where he worked as an electrician and power plant operator.

REU Project Title: Fabrication of Large Area Topological Metamaterials

Mentors: Eric Mazur, Haoning Tang

Funding: REU Site

studied Chemistry and Math at Mount Holyoke College where she was also president of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Club. She is originally from South Korea, has been active as a researcher, and likes to travel. She also enjoys photography, cooking, and music. She intends to attain her Ph.D. from UC San Diego.

REU Project Title: Direct and Accurate Non-contact Temperature Measurement of Diamond

Mentors: Derek Englund

Funding: CIQM-MIT

LinkedIn Profile

Kyra Capitan

is originally from Colorado and graduated from Amherst College studying Physics. She was a member of the Amherst College electronics club, and enjoys mountain biking and hiking. After completing her undergraduate degree, she attends graduate school as an Applied Physics Ph.D. candidate.

REU Project Title: Mixed Lead Halide Perovskite Crystals for Blue LEDs

Mentors: Dan Congreve, Mahesh Gangishetty

Funding: Rowland

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is a senior undergraduate student at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus. He is majoring in Theoretical Physics and plans to pursue graduate studies with the goal of obtaining a Ph.D. degree in Theoretical Particle Physics or Theoretical Cosmology. Lee Roger is passionate about research in theoretical physics and pure mathematics.

Mentors: Howard Georgi

Funding: MARC

Jonathan Chinana

is a sophomore Electrical Engineering major at Bunker Hill Community College.

REU Project Title: Characterization of Oxide Etch in Fabrication of InGaN QD Microdisks

Mentors: Evelyn Hu, Jonathan Dietz, Niamh Mulholland

Funding: NNCI

LinkedIn Profile

2018

Project Title: Study of Chalcogenide Thin Film Materials for Applications in Reconfigurable Electronics using Machine Learning Methods

Mentors: Joost Vlassak, Gayatri Perlin

Funding: MRSEC

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is from Crownpoint, New Mexico. She attends Navajo Technical University where her major is Animal Science. She is expected to graduate in 2020. She wants to become a veterinarian, and gain as much experience and knowledge. She wants to apply what she learned back to the Navajo Nation. Her hobbies are riding horses and her dirt bike.

Project Title: Reversing Pesticide Toxicity Effects by Using a Biomimetic Receptor

Mentors: George Whitesides, Khaled Abdelazim Mohamed

Funding: NTU.MRSEC

LinkedIn Profile

is a rising sophomore at Navajo Technical University, where she is majoring in Biology. She plans to pursue a degree in Veterinary Medicine. In her free time she likes to ride horses.

Project Title: Temperature Responsive Hydrogels

Mentors: David Weitz, Brendan Deveney

Funding: NTU.MRSEC

is a first-generation student at Navajo Technical University. He is pursuing a Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering and is in his sophomore year. He loves playing pool while listening to Tool.

Project Title:

Mentors: George Whitesides, Mike Litchfield, Jim MacArthur

Funding: NTU.MRSEC

is a rising senior at the University of Pennsylvania pursuing a BA in Molecular and Cellular Biology, with minors in Chemistry and Theater. His interests include medical diagnostic and imaging devices for applications in teaching and research. He was born and raised in Hawaii, and in his free time likes to sing, write bad jokes, and test the limits of his circadian rhythm.

Project Title: Glucose Responsive Microcapsules

Mentors: David Weitz, Joerg Werner

Funding: MRSEC

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is a rising senior at the University of Central Florida, studying Mechanical Engineering. She wants to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Engineering to facilitate medical procedures by design and improving relevant devices and equipment. She enjoys exercising and attending social events.

Project Title: The Viability of Caenorhabditis Elegans and Fish Eggs in Magnetic Levitation

Mentors: George Whitesides, Amit A. Nagarkar

Funding: MRSEC

LinkedIn Profile

was born and raised in Montserrat. She attends the University of the Virgin Islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She is a Physics major and Mathematics minor, expected to graduate in May 2021. After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to obtain a PhD in Bioengineering with the hopes of developing biomedical devices.

Project Title: Tough and Biologically Stable Hydrogel Adhesives

Mentors: Zhigang Suo, Jason Steck

Funding: MRSEC

is a rising senior at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez. She is majoring in Mechanical Engineering. After finishing her Bachelors Degree, she is determined to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Engineering. She aims to continue a career in research either in academia or the private sector. In her free time, she enjoys signing and dancing, learning about astronomy, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family.

Project Title: On-Demand Removal Strategies for Tough Adhesive Biomaterials

Mentors: David Mooney

Funding: Wyss.MRSEC

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is a student at Navajo Technical University majoring in Biology.

Nelwood's project is "Electrochemical Detection Using Paper or Thread Diagnostics".

Project Title:

Mentors: George Whitesides

Funding: MRSEC.NTU

is a rising junior at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she is studying Cioengineering. She plans to get a PhD in the biological sciences, and use her knowledge to study diseases that primarily impact historically disadvantaged people. In her free time, she enjoys knitting, reading, and learning new languages.

Peasah's project is "In Vivo Genetic Reprogramming of Mouse Cardiomyocytes".

Project Title: In vivo genetic reprogramming of mouse cardiomyocytes

Mentors: David Mooney, Irene de Lazaro

Funding: MRSEC

LinkedIn Profile

is a former Navy Corpsman and currently a senior studying Biochemistry at the University of West Florida. She intends to pursue a graduate degree in Organic Chemistry with a focus in Medicinal Chemistry. She's an avid bibliophile and recreational poet. Outside of academics, she enjoys serving her community as a volunteer firefighter and collecting books for donation to the Prison Book Project.

Project Title: Transcriptional Control of Adipose Tissue Remodeling During Hypertrophic Expansion on a Biomimetic Nanofibrous Scaffold

Mentors: Kit Parker, Ben Pope

Funding: MRSEC

LinkedIn Profile

was born and raised on the Navajo Nation in Crownpoint, NM. Continuing student at Navajo Technical University in the Biology program. Her goals are to continue her career past graduate school ultimately gaining experience, so that she can bring it back to better her community. In her free time she likes to spend time with friends and family, cook, go out, travel, read and relax.

Project Title: Fabricating Biocompatible Polymersomes Using Microfluidics

Mentors: David Weitz, Tina Yuting Huang

Funding: MRSEC.NTU

is a junior at the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities studying Civil Engineering with a focus on structures. He plans on continuing his education by pursuing a PhD with the eventual goal of conducting research and teaching as a Professor at a University. Outside of school, his hobbies include calisthenics, climbing, and pottery.

Project Title: Bistable Beam Buckling Robot

Mentors: Katia Bertoldi, Jochen Mueller

Funding: MRSEC

LinkedIn Profile

2017

is currently biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major at the University of Maryland — Baltimore County. She loves to travel, relax at the beach and play the piano in her free time.

Project Title: Low-cost Agricultural Diagnostics

Mentors: George Whitesides, Christoffer Abrahamsson

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

LinkedIn Profile

is a current sophomore at the University of Minnesota — Twin Cities where he is majoring in Electrical Engineering. He is interested in the fields of robotics and machine vision, especially how robots and humans interact. Brad is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps (2011-2016) where he was deployed twice in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve. In his free time, he enjoys working with the student robotics club, lifting weights, and spending time with friends and family.

Project Title: Machine Learning with soft robotic actuators

Mentors: Katia Bertoldi, Nick Vasios

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

LinkedIn Profile

is a full-time student at NOVA (Northern Virginia) Community College. He served five years as an active duty Marine fixing and launching out fighter jets and specializing in avionics and electrical repair. His goal is to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and continue to research throughout his college years. He enjoys rowing, swimming, and surfing.

Project Title: Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Testing of Jet Valves

Mentors: Kevin Kit Parker, Francesco Pasqualini, Luca Cera

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

LinkedIn Profile

attends Harvey Mudd College studying engineering (his major) and feminist, gender, and sexuality studies (his concentration). He is personally and academically invested in exploring and helping implement STEM in ethical ways that provide marginalized communities with accessible tools to empower them. Outside the classroom, you can find Jordan writing poetry, playing the saxophone, and having nuanced conversations about using STEM as a liberatory tool.

Project Title: On Prototyping a Soft Organic LCD

Mentors: Zhigang Suo, Shuang Zhou, Hubert Lecocque

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a senior at Montana State University majoring in Chemical Engineering and intends on obtaining a Ph.D. to pursue a career in research. She is originally from Bismarck, North Dakota and enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and snowboarding in her free time.

Project Title: Flow of Large Deformable Vesicles Through Porous Media

Mentors: Dave Weitz, Shima Parsa Moghaddam, Tina Huang

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

2024 Doctoral Dissertation: "Microfluidic Technologies to Advance Antibody Discovery"

LinkedIn Profile

is a rising Junior at Smith College, double majoring in Biochemistry and Engineering with research interests in biomedical engineering, synthetic biology, and bionanotechnology. Outside of the lab, she spends most of her time riding horses competitively, but also enjoys playing the cello and spending time with friends and family.

Project Title: Decoding the Microbiome

Mentors: George Whitesides, Benjamin Davies

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

2016

is a rising junior at the University of California, Berkeley. She is currently double majoring in Computer Science and Cognitive Science with the hopes of modeling consciousness and discovering more about artificial intelligence. She is originally from the small town of Ripon, California (the almond capital of the world) where she learned she has a passion for caring for animals, especially cats. She enjoys writing, contemplating consciousness, and running.

Project Title: Human perception of euclidean geometry: innate or not?

Mentors: L. Mahadevan, Yuval Hart

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

Project Title: Cell spreading area and volume on porous membranes

Mentors: David Weitz, Jing Xia

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a rising senior mechanical engineer at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He enjoys nature and the outdoors and spends his free time hiking, kayaking, fishing, and gardening. Victor plans on pursuing a Ph.D. in materials science and aspires to one day become a professor.

Project Title: Quick-release electroadhesives

Mentors: David Clarke, Mihai (Mishu) Duduta

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a rising junior at Salem State University and a US Air Force veteran. She still serves in the Massachusetts Air National Guard and works part-time as an Emergency Medical Technician. She intends to complete her undergraduate degree in Biology and pursue a medical degree to become a physician.

Project Title: Tensile strength and insulin resistance to adipose tissue

Mentors: Kit Parker, Ben Pope

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a rising senior in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at The University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez. She is a four-year researcher in chemical/biomedical engineering. She is passionate about research and clinical medicine. Therefore, She plans to attend medical school to earn a dual MD-PhD degree. This experience will equip her with the credentials to both participate in medical research, and be a physician.

Project Title: A paper-based immunoassay for detection of Brucella on a portable electrochemical platform

Mentors: George Whitesides, Chien-Chung Wang

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a junior physics major student from Illinois Wesleyan University. His fields of interest are quantum optics, quantum information, and microfluidics. He is working on single-cell immunization in the Weitz lab this summer.

Project Title: Microfluidics device fabrication and single-cell Immunol assay

Mentors: David Weitz, Xu Zhang, John Heyman

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a pre-dental student pursuing a Biochemistry, ACS degree and a music minor at Western Connecticut State University. He has been involved in chemistry research, shadowing, and dental enrichment programs, and aspires to become a DDS or DMD/Ph.D. student and work in a biomaterials research lab. He enjoys playing violin, volleyball, and ping pong.

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is currently working towards a Biology Transfer Option major at Bunker Hill Community College. A Marine veteran, he plans on transferring to a four-year college to pursue a degree in Neuroscience. After completing medical school, he intends to practice medicine to help those who are less fortunate. When he's not in his study, he enjoys spending time with family, playing music, skating, swimming, and the outdoors.

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a 4th-year Chemical Engineering Student from Miami, Fl. He is currently a student at Florida A&M University. He enjoys having fun outdoors and experiencing new things. Once he graduates he will be pursuing his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570

is a rising Junior at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY studying mechanical engineering. After graduation, he hopes to continue his education and receive a graduate degree in mechanical engineering. John enjoys listening to music, playing football and exploring.

Funding: Harvard MRSEC, NSF DMR-1420570