Undergraduate Students

BME senior project brings next-generation accessibility to live events

Alexander James Servantez — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:25:36 +0000

BME senior project brings next-generation accessibility to live events Alexander Jame… Thu, 04/09/2026 - 08:25

Alexander Servantez

Music has a way of bringing people together in the same shared experience.

But for more than 11 million Americans who are deaf or hard of hearing, live concerts don’t always offer that same sense of inclusion.

A group of seniors in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder are working to change that by designing a set of closed caption glasses during their senior capstone design class.

A close look at the team's closed caption glasses in action during a live concert.

The project is sponsored by Shine Music, a nonprofit creating barrier-free live music experiences through accessibility, adaptive technology and universal design. It uses real-time audio transcription to display song lyrics directly through the lens of a pair of wearable glasses.

The team said the device will help bring a new level of accessibility to concerts, theater, lectures and beyond.

“Deaf or hard of hearing individuals often don’t have the ability to experience the joy of live music and events as others. They are typically placed in designated areas where their focus is on an ASL interpreter instead of experiencing the show,” said software engineer Alena Tucker. “Our goal is to provide another option that allows them to be more fully engaged in the live setting.”

To do this, the group developed a mobile app that uses Apple Speech to transcribe local audio signals. The app connects to the glasses via Bluetooth, sending a live stream of captions that appear right in the user’s field of vision.

According to the team, the system operates with less than a one-second delay and achieves over 90% accuracy, allowing users to receive fast, reliable captions almost instantaneously. For deaf or hard of hearing people, that level of speed and accuracy can make the difference between a seamless, enjoyable experience and one that feels delayed or disconnected—especially in smaller venues where accessibility options are limited.

“It’s very costly for smaller venues to hire an ASL interpreter,” said software engineer Meredith Overton. “A lot of times this prevents people from buying last-minute tickets because there might not be an interpreter on-site.”

But despite impressive speed and accuracy benchmarks, the group still faced challenges that made the project difficult to perfect.

One challenge involved the varying complexities of music. Genres like rap and rock, which feature fast-paced beats and rapid lyrics, proved difficult for the device to process quickly.

Another challenge was budgetary constraints. However, their team dynamics and willingness to learn new things helped them overcome these obstacles.

“Even with all of the stress, everyone knew we were going to work hard, laugh, have a good time and make the best out of it,” said production lead and electronics engineer Maeve Bihn. “This process has been about learning as we go. It’s taught us a lot about the overall diversity of biomedical engineering.”

With the highly anticipated Engineering Expo event right around the corner, the group is working diligently to finalize their design and data. They hope to have a functioning set of closed caption glasses available for visitors to try themselves.

Join us at Engineering Expo 2026!

Everything �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder engineering students learn culminates in capstone design projects, presented at the annual Engineering Projects Expo. Explore amazing new inventions and technologies created by our next-generation of engineers!

Who: K-12 students, prospective �鶹��Ѱ��Engineers, and community members are all encouraged to attend.

When: Friday, April 17 from 2 to 5 p.m.

Where: Ford Practice Facility, 2150 Colorado Ave., Boulder, CO

Parking: Available in Lot 436 and the Regent Parking Garage for $5.

Music has a way of bringing people together in the same shared experience. But for more than 11 million Americans who are deaf or hard of hearing, live concerts don’t always offer that same sense of inclusion. A group of seniors in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder are working to change that by designing a set of closed caption glasses during their senior capstone design class.

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From left to right: Ben Finneseth, Alena Tucker, Maeve Binh, Meredith Overton, Maddie Venezia-Ford, Aryan Mulgaokar

BME seniors design residual limb warmer for winter para-athletes

Alexander James Servantez — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:48:23 +0000

BME seniors design residual limb warmer for winter para-athletes Alexander Jame… Wed, 04/08/2026 - 09:48

Alexander Servantez

On freezing mountain tracks and icy slopes around the world, elite para-athletes are constantly pushing their bodies to the limit.

But in subzero conditions, that pursuit comes with unique risks that aren’t always easy to detect.

A team of seniors in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder are working to change that by designing a residual limb warmer for winter para-athletes during their senior capstone design course. Inspired by the ruggedness of winter jackets and ski boots, the device will help prevent discomfort, injury and long-term complications in cold-exposed residual limbs.

A close look at the team's residual limb warmer design for winter para-athletes.

The project is sponsored by Project S.E.R.V.E., a nonprofit that partners student engineers with veterans and emergency responders to design solutions that improve their quality of life. The group says it focuses on the hidden dangers para-athletes face in extreme cold conditions, where reduced circulation and limited sensation can allow injuries to develop without warning.

“Amputated limbs often have less blood flow and less heat transfer, meaning they get cold more quickly,” said design engineer Nathan Day. “However, other factors can make the risk worse. Scar tissue buildup and a lack of nerve endings in the area could hinder the body’s natural ability to sense and respond to the cold.

“Essentially, severe tissue damage could occur without the para-athlete ever feeling it.”

To address these issues, the group created a multi-layered warming sleeve designed to enhance safety without sacrificing performance. The device uses durable wire heaters to deliver consistent heat while withstanding the impact of high-intensity crashes.

Inside the sleeve is a removable merino wool liner that sits closest to the prosthetic socket. The liner provides extra comfort and can be easily removed for cleaning after long days of use.

Beyond the inner layer, the team added a graphene reflective material that redirects heat from the wire heaters back toward the limb. Paired with lightweight synthetic insulation—similar to that used in high-performance winter gear—the system helps retain warmth even in wet or windy conditions.

And finally, the device features a rugged and weather-resistant outer shell that protects against debris and ensures continued functionality in the harsh, unpredictable environments where para-athletes compete.

“We’re not just protecting para-athletes from the cold,” said Day. “We want to empower them to conquer the mountains fearlessly.”

The team says the project was largely inspired by themselves. As Colorado natives, they were all able to draw upon some of their own experiences at mountain resorts to develop a valuable product.

An inside look of the residual limb warmer, showcasing the device's graphene reflective material.

But even with their own experiences on the slopes, the students quickly realized there was a critical perspective they lacked: what it truly feels like to be a para-athlete.

That’s why they teamed up with Doc Jacobs, 2026 US Para Bobsled National Champion, to provide the real-world para-athlete perspective they were missing.

“He has been an integral part of our design process this year,” said materials engineer David Debretsion. “We’ve given him our progress reports and asked him for feedback. He’s so inspiring and it’s really exciting to see how a device like this can make a real impact in his life.”

The group was able to work with a handful of other para-athletes and medical professionals, as well. According to the students, the partnerships helped open their eyes to what they call “the little things.”

“We had an idea for an LED color system to help para-athletes monitor their sleeve’s heat level, but with feedback from our sources, we realized we had to consider things like color blindness,” said product lead and design engineer Cassie Eisen. “Or even for our fastening system—we had to understand that para-athletes are wearing bulky gear that makes it difficult to use their hands.

“It’s definitely helped us take a step back and be more accessible for the greater para-athletic community.”

The team is excited to showcase their project at this year’s Engineering Expo event. They say visitors will get the chance to interact with their physical heating sleeve, see past prototypes and even explore the different layers that make up the device.

But their journey doesn’t end there. The group will also be competing in Project S.E.R.V.E.'s National Design Competition in April, where they will put their heating sleeve to the test against 11 other universities.

Still, their goal is to create a device that doesn’t just excel on paper—it puts the para-athlete first.

“Of course, we want to win the competition,” Day said. “But this is a device that will be used on a real person for real results. Even if we don’t completely align with the needs of the competition, we’ll be happy if we create the best possible product for para-athletes.”

Join us at Engineering Expo 2026!

Who: K-12 students, prospective �鶹��Ѱ��Engineers, and community members are all encouraged to attend.

When: Friday, April 17 from 2 to 5 p.m.

Where: Ford Practice Facility, 2150 Colorado Ave., Boulder, CO

Parking: Available in Lot 436 and the Regent Parking Garage for $5.

On freezing mountain tracks and icy slopes around the world, elite para-athletes are constantly pushing their bodies to the limit. But in subzero conditions, that pursuit comes with unique risks that aren’t always easy to detect. A team of seniors in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder are working to change that by designing a residual limb warmer for winter para-athletes during their senior capstone design course.

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From left to right: Matteo Coscia, David Debretsion, Nathan Day, Anna Sallee, Cassie Eisen, Sara Wissner, Alyssa Radman

BME students design leg sleeve for Team USA para-athletes

Alexander James Servantez — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:19:43 +0000

BME students design leg sleeve for Team USA para-athletes Alexander Jame… Mon, 03/09/2026 - 12:19

A team of BME students created a leg sleeve device designed to help para-athletes on Team USA. They will be debuting the novel design at a national competition in April.

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Biomedical engineering students present research at BMES Annual Meeting

Alexander James Servantez — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 17:09:02 +0000

Biomedical engineering students present research at BMES Annual Meeting Alexander Jame… Wed, 11/19/2025 - 10:09

Alexander Servantez

Engineering student research on joint damage, arthritis, heart problems, and tissue defects were the subject of presentations at a major national conference.

Six students and researchers from the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) presented their work at this year’s Biomedical Engineering Society 2025 Annual Meeting in San Diego.

The conference, one of the premier gatherings of biomedical engineers and allied fields, brought together over 5,500 attendees worldwide in early October to focus on health and wellness through engineering innovation.

During the five-day event, each student was given the opportunity to present a poster or talk highlighting the primary outcomes of their research. Read below to learn more about these students and their incredible contributions to science and engineering.

Faith Olulana

Faith is a graduate student in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. She is a member of the Neu Lab, led by Professor Corey Neu, and gave a talk at this year’s annual meeting titled “Granular Extracellular Matrix-Based Biomaterial for Engineering of Biological Tissues.”

Joint cartilage has a limited capacity for self-repair, thus there is a need to develop tissue engineering strategies capable of new tissue growth. Decellularized extracellular matrices (dECM) are a promising platform for tissue repair, as they retain biological cues that support cell invasion and integration.

However, dense cartilage ECM presents biophysical barriers that hinder cell infiltration. While hydrogels can provide higher porosity and migratory properties, they often fail to match the mechanical properties of dense connective tissues. Therefore, a key challenge is developing materials that provide both mechanical support and facilitate cellular migration, promoting tissue repair and function.

The Neu Lab addresses this challenge by developing granular extracellular matrix (gECM) biomaterials, comprising decellularized ECM microparticles densely packed within a hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogel. The packing and architecture of gECM biomaterials balances mechanical integrity and porosity, facilitating structural support and cellular migration.

Faith’s research characterizes the mechanical and structural properties of gECM biomaterials using percolation theory. As tissue particle density increases, material properties shift from hydrogel-like to tissue-like. The percolation threshold is the point at which mechanics are dictated by tissue particles rather than the surrounding hydrogel.

Faith and her team aim to define where this threshold occurs in naturally derived gECM biomaterials and how particle size and shape influence this threshold. Understanding this transition shows how closely the biomaterial mimics native tissues, thus demonstrating the gECM’s ability to replicate characteristics of native tissues.

Izaiah Ramirez

Izaiah is a PhD student in the BME program and is also a member of the Neu Lab. He presented a poster titled “Increased Nuclear Reorganization Following Repetitive Stiffening in NIH-3T3 Fibroblasts.”

Fibroblasts in the heart regulate the tissue’s extracellular matrix by continuously sensing and transducing external mechanical forces. When mechanical signals become persistently imbalanced, such as after a heart attack, fibroblasts activate and quickly remodel the tissue environment in a process known as fibrosis.

Notable changes in fibroblasts occur within hours of an altered environment and persist for the cell’s lifespan. Although these changes are well characterized, the mechanisms at play prior to these visible changes remain poorly understood.

Izaiah’s research aims to understand how mechanical stresses can affect nuclear organization, before a fibroblast activates and loses its ability to recover. To study this, he and his lab group use customized, soft polymer materials to control the magnitude and time the cells are stimulated.

Using this system, Izaiah says his team can track how fibroblast nuclei reorganize after each cycle of stress. He believes this knowledge can one day help identify when certain diseases, like fibrosis, become irreversible and when treatments might be most effective.

Markkus Tong

Markkus is an undergraduate student in the BME program and a member of the Computer Vision/Imagine AI Lab, led by Associate Professor Tom Yeh. At this year’s BMES event, he presented a poster titled “T13 - Supporting Strategies to Address Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations in Fontan Patients.”

Markkus’ research focuses on treatments for children who are born with serious heart defects where only one pumping chamber develops properly. In these instances, doctors can perform a series of surgeries to help reroute blood flow to improve oxygen levels in the lungs, bypassing the heart entirely.

But while these treatments exist, they can cause complications and patients can develop other health issues; with no resistance in blood vessels from the heart pumping blood, malformations would develop as a result, leading to less flow traveling to organs.

Markkus says there isn’t a clear way yet for doctors to compare the various treatment’s effectiveness and decide which option is best for a given patient. The goal of his study is to develop a framework that helps clinicians evaluate and choose the most effective strategies for restoring blood flow in patients who require this attention virtually, without having to open up the patient.

Katie Gallagher

Katie is a PhD student in the BME program and also a member of the Neu lab. She gave a talk titled “Tissue-specific granular extracellular matrix biomaterials drive differential responses in human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells.”

Much like Faith, Katie’s research involves using gECM biomaterial to repair damaged cartilage. But she is looking to tackle the issue from a different perspective.

Over time, small areas of damaged cartilage can lead to the breakdown of nearby cartilage and bone, eventually causing osteoarthritis. This debilitating disease affects millions of people worldwide and currently has extremely limited treatment options.

In her talk, Katie demonstrated how human derived mesenchymal stromal cells behave within different tissue derived gECM hydrogels. Her findings showed tissue specific responses to the bone and cartilage gECM materials including cellular growth and gene expression.

Katie believes these results will help them move closer towards future treatments for osteoarthritis.

S. Ellyse Schneider

Ellyse is a Research Associate in Dr. Corey Neu’s lab, and holds a master’s degree and a PhD from the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. At the annual meeting, Ellyse presented a poster titled “Senescent cardiac fibroblasts after cardiomyocyte nuclear mechanics.”

As a person ages, senescent fibroblasts within the heart can build up and may interfere with how the heart functions, but their mechanical impact on the behavior of neighboring cells, especially the contracting cardiomyocyte, is still not well understood.

In this study, Ellyse cultured cardiomyocytes on soft “healthy” and stiff “diseased” substrates to see how they respond when senescent fibroblasts are added. She found that these senescent cells immediately changed the contraction mechanics of the cardiomyocyte especially on the stiffer, disease-like substrates.

When conditioned media from senescent fibroblast cultures was used, smaller effects on the cardiomyocyte contraction mechanics were observed, suggesting that direct contact between cells plays an important role.

Overall, these findings show that senescent cells mechanically disrupt the microenvironment, helping to better delineate the factors that contribute to aging and heart disease.

Juliet Heye

Juliet is a PhD candidate in the BME program and Neu Lab. She presented a poster at the BMES event titled “Characterization of Extrudable Granular ECM (gECM) Biomaterials for Five Distinct Tissue-Specific Applications.”

Juliet’s research aims to develop granular ECM (gECM) biomaterials that recapitulate native tissue for realistic in vitro models and filling tissue defects in vivo. Her work characterizes gECM biomaterials for five tissue applications that cover a large percentage of disease applications—cartilage, bone, skin, liver, and kidney.

In her poster, Juliet characterizes the biophysical and mechanical behavior of these gECM biomaterials. She also demonstrates in a subset of gECM tissues (cartilage and skin) that these materials can support cell viability, proliferation, and tissue-specific gene expression.

Juliet says the work demonstrates that gECM biomaterials are practical, translational, and biomimetic, supporting their use in developing realistic tissue models and implantable fillers for a variety of disease types.

Six students and researchers from the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME) presented their work on joint damage, arthritis, heart problems, and tissue defects at this year’s Biomedical Engineering Society 2025 Annual Meeting in San Diego.

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BME undergraduate student helps uncover new treatment for respiratory syndrome

Alexander James Servantez — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 15:53:40 +0000

BME undergraduate student helps uncover new treatment for respiratory syndrome Alexander Jame… Fri, 09/26/2025 - 09:53

Alexander Servantez

For many undergraduate students, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) is an opportunity to obtain early hands-on experience in a lab setting.

Aiming to increase undergraduate research engagement and interest, the program pairs nearly 125 engineering students from across the college in research labs with faculty members and graduate mentors. For 10 weeks, students foster unique, hands-on research experiences and develop crucial skills that serve them well beyond their undergraduate journey.

But for Joshua Smith, it was more than just exposure and learning—it was the chance to contribute to a real scientific breakthrough.

Smith, an undergraduate student in the Biomedical Engineering Program (BME), started his SPUR research journey under the supervision of Assistant Professor Wyatt Shields and graduate mentor Bianca Santana in the Shields Lab. Their project, like something straight out of a health sci-fi movie, involved studying a method of drug transport to the lungs using tiny microrobots to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

“Usually, therapies are based on something called ‘passive delivery,’ which means a drug is injected or inhaled and the patient is left to hope everything works okay from there,” said Smith. “In this method of drug delivery, not much of the treatment actually gets where it needs to go. We’re trying to develop a new method of active transport where we can direct where those drugs go after they enter the body.”

The winding road to treatment

ARDS is a life-threatening lung condition characterized by severe lung inflammation and fluid build-up. It often arises as a complication of other illnesses or injuries and has been seen to develop in a significant percentage of COVID-19 patients—nearly 61 to 81% of those requiring intensive care, according to a study in the National Library of Medicine.

BME undergraduate student Joshua Smith working alongside graduate mentor Bianca Santana of the Shields Lab. (Credit: Jesse Morgan Petersen)

Most ARDS treatment options today are ill-equipped to address the underlying cause of the illness. Current therapies merely look to support the patient and improve select symptoms.

That’s why Smith and his lab group began exploring RNA-based gene therapy, a next-generation therapeutic approach that uses molecules from ribonucleic acid to influence genetic expression, modulate biological pathways and treat diseases.

“We are testing circular RNA, which is a different kind of RNA. Its ends are covalently bonded together, meaning it's less susceptible to degrading enzymes and immune responses,” Smith said.

RNAs face difficulties crossing cellular membranes on their own, so the group is exploring another new solution: pairing them with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). These tiny, spherical vesicles encapsulate the RNA and increase membrane permeability, allowing them to access the cell.

But that’s not the only obstacle. Drug delivery, especially to the lungs, is extremely difficult. The lungs are protected by a viscous mucosal barrier that acts as a physical shield, trapping and blocking potentially infectious inhaled particles and pathogens.

Smith says that’s where the microrobots come in. By attaching the LNPs to the biodegradable, polymeric microbots, he and his team believe they have the power to overcome the tough layer of mucus and safely deliver drugs to the lungs in a much more targeted manner.

“These little bots—we can control them using acoustic, electric and rotating magnetic fields,” said Smith. “If our project is successful, it can lead to much more of the drug reaching its intended destination, thus making the RNA way more effective and efficient.”

Early exposure to discovery

For Smith, a certain allure behind the project captured his curiosity.

“I was looking through SPUR projects one night and I saw the word ‘robot’ in the chemical engineering section. Honestly, it just sounded like it was interdisciplinary and super cool,” Smith said. “When you get to combine two different fields, that’s the best part about science.”

But it wasn’t just a learning experience. Smith said he was able to observe first-hand, and even play a role in a key discovery.

Smith inspecting a piece of lab equipment in the Shields Lab. (Credit: Jesse Morgan Petersen)

“We tested cell viability in circular RNA over the course of a five-day experiment. We were looking to see how much protein the cells produced when exposed to circular RNA as opposed to linear RNA,” said Smith. “We found that circular RNA produced 20 times more protein than linear RNA for a longer period of time. This means the therapies we are working on can be 20 times more effective and last a day longer than other industry standards.”

Smith says these findings have the potential to make a broad impact in the field of gene therapy as a whole, not just ARDS.

“Our project is unique because we’re not just focusing on a specific drug,” Smith said. “We’re focused on drug delivery. Our experiment can easily be applied to other areas, or at least the base concepts of RNA-based gene therapy.”

Going forward, Smith’s experience in the lab has inspired him to potentially pursue medical school after his undergraduate journey. It also illuminated other career fields with ample opportunities to conduct important research.

Regardless of where he ends up, Smith says he’ll bring a strong air of confidence with him.

“There’s definitely expectations and a steep learning curve when it comes to working in a lab,” said Smith. “But throughout the summer, I feel like I grew to be more of a partner, not just a mentee. I was a big contributor to our project and I’m excited to apply what I learned towards my future.”

The project, like something straight out of a health sci-fi movie, combines RNA-based gene therapy with tiny microrobots for drug transport to help treat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

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Credit: Jesse Morgan Petersen

Scientists develop method to build tine custom microrobots

Anonymous — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Scientists develop method to build tine custom microrobots Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 07/07/2025 - 12:00

Researchers in the Shields lab, including a BME undergraduate researcher at the �鶹��Ѱ�� have created a new way to build and control tiny particles that can move and work like microscopic robots, offering a powerful tool with applications in biomedical and environmental research.

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Biomedical Engineers Celebrate Graduation

Anonymous — Mon, 12 May 2025 17:35:03 +0000

Biomedical Engineers Celebrate Graduation Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 05/12/2025 - 11:35

Thursday, May 8, 2025 was a day of celebration, as students, families, friends, and faculty gathered to honor this momentous occasion. This event marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication with an eye to a future full of promise. This graduating class is poised to make a meaningful impact in the world of biomedical science - whether in academia, industry or healthcare.

This spring marks the third graduating class from �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s ever-expanding Biomedical Engineering Program. Just two years ago, the Program celebrated 15 graduates. This year we proudly recognize 96 graduates including:

1PhD
29 Masters
66 Bachelors students

Throughout their time at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, these students were supported by outstanding faculty whose commitment to excellence in teaching and research laid a strong foundation for academic and professional success. Many students further enriched their education through research, internships, leadership roles in campus organizations, and preparation for medical school.

Several students were honored for their outstanding achievements by the College and the Program:

College Awards

Academic Engagement Award: Creighton Tisdale
Community Impact Award: Fishion Yohannes
Research Award: Cassidy Allen, Julia Keefe, Hayden Tomazin and Shannon Blanco

Program Awards

Academic Engagement Award: Gavin Channel
Community Impact Award: Clare Keeler and Rachel Beem
Outstanding Undergraduate Award: Shristi Jerath
Graduate Community Impact Award: Chadwick Healy
Graduate Research Award: Danielle Dresdner

As these graduates step into the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them a spirit of innovation and a deep sense of purpose. The field of biomedical science is constantly evolving, and our graduates are well-prepared to meet its challenges and seize its opportunities. Whether they pursue careers in research, clinical practice, industry, or further education, their contributions will help shape the future of medicine and healthcare.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! May your careers be filled with success, discovery, and fulfillment. The �鶹��Ѱ�� is immensely proud of your achievements and looks forward to the remarkable contributions you will make to the world.

To view and download pictures from the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, please visit this link.

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BME Senior Design Projects - Engineering Expo 2025

Lisa Romero De Mendoza — Fri, 02 May 2025 19:03:36 +0000

BME Senior Design Projects - Engineering Expo 2025 Lisa Romero De… Fri, 05/02/2025 - 13:03

Team Boulder Sterilization Services - BME Senior Design Award Winner. Members include: Zoie Nuno, Cambria McNulla, Kosy Ogbonna-ukuku, Samuel Zanotti and Ariadnee Ziady.

This year, 14 Biomedical Engineering (BME) Program senior design teams joined the College of Engineering & Applied Science Senior Expo to showcase their projects, a culmination of work that spanned two semesters. Some of the industry sponsors for this year included: Boulder IQ, Medtronic, TissueForm and Cardiost.

The Biomedical Engineering Program’s senior design course gives students the opportunity to apply the engineering knowledge they have gained at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder to a real-world, open-ended design challenge. Industry sponsors propose a project that emulates the sort of challenges and problems students will encounter in an entry-level engineering position. Each project is then matched with a student team.

During the year-long experience, each student assumes a leadership role and contributes to the technical aspects of the project. Teams meet with their industry sponsor to ensure appropriate progress is made on the project and present their proof-of-concept prototype in the spring.

All of the teams did a terrific job with their projects and presentations highlighting their knowledge and skills! Congratulations to all of them!

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Students shine at the 2nd Annual BME Bioinstrumentation Expo

Lisa Romero De Mendoza — Thu, 01 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Students shine at the 2nd Annual BME Bioinstrumentation Expo Lisa Romero De… Thu, 05/01/2025 - 10:00

Each spring, students in the BME Bioinstrumentation course work on a team to create a device with applications used in clinical medicine and/or biomedical research. BME students are tasked with developing the project idea based on research and clinical needs. This course lets students use their creativity while applying knowledge gained in class and previous coursework. Team projects must utilize systems for measuring biological signals that can include biopotentials (electrical signals generated in the body), strain, pressure, and temperature that are used to interpret data from living systems. Students also participate in ethical discussions and regulatory issues surrounding medical devices.

This year, we had 14 team projects that included a Smart Bandage that would help remind the user to change their bandage if it met certain conditions to prevent infection to the EverWomb, swaddling that emulates the womb environment of temperature and mother’s heartbeat for newborn babies.

One project, ExoStride, received top honors from judges. This assistive device allows users to use a modified knee brace for increased mobility. The idea came to the team as they reflected on those in their lives who live with chronic knee pain and injury with the goal of providing independence. Congratulations to team members Mallory Phillips, Kevin Leidig, Sudhiksha Sivakumar and Madison Seckman on their Outstanding Project Award.

BME alums - Caitlin Mascio, Viri Varela and Kayla Pacheco

While BME is still a relatively new Program, we were excited to welcome back three program alumni who helped judge this year’s Bioinstrumentation projects. Alumni from the first BME graduating cohort of 14 from Spring 2023 returned to campus to engage with current students. These alums could draw from their work experience in reviewing these projects while at the same time setting students at ease given, they were recently in their same shoes. Alumni included Kayla Pacheco, Viri Varela and Caitlin Mascio who had a chance to have a mini reunion while attending the expo. This was truly a full-circle moment for the BME Program.

Students in BME's Bioinstrumentation course shared their team projects at the 2nd Annual Bioinstrumentation Expo. This semester-long course helps students to design a device with clinical applications. It allows students to use their creativity and the skills gained throughout the course. For the judging, this year, we were joined by program alumni from the first BME graduating class. All of the students are to be congratulated!

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Six biomedical engineering students earn graduating student awards

Alexander James Servantez — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:02:03 +0000

Six biomedical engineering students earn graduating student awards Alexander Jame… Wed, 04/23/2025 - 14:02

Alexander Servantez

Six students from the Biomedical Engineering program (BME) have earned graduating student awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science in 2025.

These awards honor seniors who are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students for their outstanding contributions.

Each of the seven award winners will be recognized and celebrated at the department's Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, May 8.

Read below to learn more about these students and their amazing achievements.

Creighton Tisdale

Tisdale has received the Academic Engagement Award for his exemplary commitment to the college ecosystem. He has served as a course assistant for numerous classes, providing an enriching educational experience for his peers. In many cases, he even went above-and-beyond to learn new material in order to make sure he could assist effectively.

He's also excelled tremendously in the classroom and as an undergraduate researcher. Tisdale has maintained a 3.93 GPA and is a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. In the lab, he has displayed the ability to quickly pick up complex concepts, even becoming a second author on a recently accepted research paper after working in the Shields Lab under Assistant Professor C. Wyatt Shields IV for only six months. Outside of academics, Tisdale coaches youth sports, focusing on making the game accessible and inclusive for anyone. His nominator says Tisdale is a competitive nominee for any awards offered this spring, but academic engagement is where he shines the most.

What's next for you and how did �鶹��Ѱ��Engineering help you prepare for the future?

I came to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder hoping I could find my way towards designing and improving surgical and medical devices—my undergraduate experience prepared me more than I would've ever imagined. I was lucky enough to work on a senior design project fully focused on electrosurgery and device design, as well as gaining experience with unorthodox diagnostic techniques in my research. CEAS and the BME program allowed me to find the career direction I was seeking from the start by giving me loads of hands-on academic and professional exposure.

Fishion Yohannes

Yohannes is being tapped as a recipient of the Community Engagement Award for her unwavering commitment to community service through her involvement in mentorship, student support programs and advocacy initiatives. As a Lattice Scholars mentor, she is constantly providing guidance and encouragement to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder's first-generation scholars. She has also served as a lead mentor in the Engineering GoldShirt program, advocating for student success and cultivating an environment built on support, leadership and resilience. Her nominator says her impact is so profound, that many students have come back to become mentors themselves, "hoping to give back even a fraction of what she gave to them. The culture she has built will have a lasting legacy far beyond her time on campus."

What's next for you and how did �鶹��Ѱ��Engineering help you prepare for the future?

After graduation, I will be pursuing an industry role where I can apply all of the technical, collaborative, and problem-solving skills I’ve developed during my time at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. CEAS not only provided me with rigorous academic preparation, but also offered mentorship, resources, and opportunities that shaped my confidence and career direction. Without the support of �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and CEAS, I truly don't know where I'd be today. I’ve found an irreplaceable community that made me feel supported, empowered, and seen as an engineer. This experience has not only prepared me for industry but has instilled a deep sense of purpose and belonging that I will carry with me into every future endeavor.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

My best advice for current students and future students has to be to know that you belong. Engineering is challenging, but you are not alone. Seek out mentors, seek community, and most importantly seek help. It’s OK not to know everything. Imposter syndrome is very real, but please remember that your perspective and contributions are beyond valuable. Your journey will have obstacles, but perseverance, resilience, and a strong support system will guide you. More than anything, never let self-doubt dictate your potential because you are capable, you are worthy, and you have the power to make a difference.

Cassidy Allen

Allen is receiving a Research Award from the college for her outstanding and impactful contributions to the biomedical industry. During her time at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, she has helped create a more efficient method for treating Raynaud's Disease using an adaptive device. Currently, treatment for the disease is done using a broad approach where whole extremities (hands, feet, etc.) are treated using a glove or sock-like device. The device's power consumption and design limited the treatment's effectiveness.

But Allen had other ideas. She introduced sensor-targeted treatment that greatly increased effectiveness and reduced the device's power consumption by nearly 66%. Her novel thinking, as well as her collaboration with other entities in the BME program, have fueled her early research success, and positioned her for a future patent for her technology.

What's next for you and how did �鶹��Ѱ��Engineering help you prepare for the future?

Next, I will be joining the Cardiac Electrophysiology division at Abbott Laboratories as a software systems engineer in St. Paul, Minnesota. There, I’ll be contributing to the research and development of cutting-edge cardiac ablation systems to treat various arrhythmias with combined radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and pulsed field ablation (PFA) techniques. My experience at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and CEAS prepared me incredibly well for this opportunity. Through hands-on research and course projects, I developed practical and problem-solving skills that I feel confident bringing into this next chapter.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

Don’t be afraid to fail! Some of the most valuable experiences come from mistakes and unexpected outcomes. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow, so embrace those moments and use them to become a better thinker and creator.

Shannon Blanco

Blanco is graduating with a dual major in mechanical engineering and biomedical engineering. She is receiving the Research Award for her work as a member of Neu Lab under Professor Corey Neu. Since joining this group in 2022, Blanco has contributed greatly to impact in the fields of biofabrication, 3D bioprinting, and the advancement of knowledge of osteoarthritis. Current solutions for younger patients with osteoarthritis who do not qualify for total knee replacements are primarily anti-inflammatory drugs that don’t restore the afflicted cartilage or bone tissue. There is a need for new treatment options, and her work will help bring these options to life.

She is also being recognized as a key member of an interdisciplinary team. She has co-authored peer-reviewed publications and worked with multiple stakeholders throughout her time at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, including doctors, surgeons and PhD-level scientists. Her nominator says her contributions have been "trusted by all members of the laboratory."

What's next for you and how did �鶹��Ѱ��Engineering help you prepare for the future?

After graduating this spring, I will be continuing at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder to pursue my master’s in mechanical engineering through the BAM program. In the future, I hope to work in medical device design or prosthetics. �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder has helped prepare me beyond an educational standpoint by providing opportunities to get involved outside of class and make valuable connections.

Now that you are graduating, what's your best advice for other students?

Take advantage of the opportunities �鶹��Ѱ��has to offer, whether it's research, clubs, internships, or design projects. Explore different areas, even if you're unsure at first, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Julia Keefe

Keefe's research ownership and tenacious attitude has earned her a Research Award this spring. During her time in the Rationally Designed Immunotherapeutics & Interfaces Research Group under Assistant Professor Kayla Sprenger, Keefe has evolved her learning and skills into novel thinking and questions. In fact, she even found a gap in literature, and her innovative work will one day provide mechanistic insight into the biomedical field.

Her project, funded by the Discovery Learning Apprenticeship Program (DLA), identifies protein-ligand conformations to propose druggable targets and aid future immunotherapeutic design. The diligent attention to detail and awareness will advance efforts toward immune regulation in inflammatory and immune-resolution disease states, improving translatability of rationally designed therapeutics that will directly benefit women’s health research. Keefe is also a former dancer. Her nominator says her research prowess is defined by her ability to "combine art and medicine, design and engineering." She presented her research at this year's DLA symposium and is currently working on submitting her research to a peer-reviewed journal.

What's next for you and how did �鶹��Ѱ��Engineering help you prepare for the future?

After graduation, I am looking to continue working in the field of cancer research and technologies with a focus on women's health. CEAS helped me prepare by allowing me to explore so many different areas of engineering to truly find where my passions lie.

Hayden Tomazin

Tomazin is receiving a Research Award for his exceptional ability to complex scientific concepts and apply them to challenging research problems. His research primarily focuses on magnetically responsive microstructures. Using precise magnetic control to create lock-and-key microassemblies, Tomazin has been developing new fabrication techniques that can open doors for innovative applications in microsurgery and targeted drug delivery. His work could one day pave the way for a new class of noninvasive medical interventions.

Tomazin's contributions will also make their way into two publications out of the Shields Lab, led by Assistant Professor C. Wyatt Shields IV. He will be the second and third author in these publications, showcasing his outstanding dedication and curiosity to research. Beyond the lab, Tomazin has effectively shared his research and knowledge with a broader audience, presenting posters at conferences and through collaborations with other universities. His nominator says this level of undergraduate research achievement is rare, and that Tomazin is "one of the most capable undergraduate researchers I have mentored in my career."

What's next for you and how did �鶹��Ѱ��Engineering help you prepare for the future?

I'm hoping to find a job where I can use my research experience to help make medical treatment more accessible and less invasive.

Seven students from the Biomedical Engineering program (BME) have earned graduating student awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science in 2025. These awards honor seniors who are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students for their outstanding contributions to the college and campus community.

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