Experience

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I am currently working on my Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP) at WPI, a unique program designed to address problems that connect science, technology, and society. My project focuses on using artificial intelligence to detect algae in microscopy images for environmental management. Sponsored by Dr. Chong Yee Ling at the Education University of Hong Kong, this initiative aims to tackle the significant issue of water pollution by identifying harmful algal blooms, which can severely impact ecosystems and human health.

From January to March 2025, I will travel to Hong Kong to implement the project. My responsibilities include collecting water samples, analyzing microscopy images, and developing an AI-based system to detect and classify algae. Additionally, I will engage with local communities to gather insights into their experiences with water quality and algal blooms. The end goal is to create a user-friendly application with real-time monitoring capabilities, providing actionable data for policymakers to manage and mitigate water pollution.

Through this project, I am refining my skills in data analysis, AI implementation, interdisciplinary teamwork, and community engagement, all while contributing to a sustainable environmental solution. This experience is furthering my commitment to combining engineering innovation with meaningful societal impact.

Throughout 2024, I worked on an innovative breast shield project as part of a Biomedical Engineering design class at WPI. Collaborating with a team, we developed a product aimed at improving the comfort and efficiency of breast pumps. After the course, I continued refining the design under the guidance of Professor Diana Alatalo, and the project is now progressing through the patent application process.

While I can’t share specific details about the design, this project taught me invaluable lessons in medical device development, user-centered design, and the patenting process. I gained hands-on experience in CAD, prototyping, material testing, and iterative problem-solving, all while collaborating closely with a team to address real-world challenges. This experience not only strengthened my technical skills but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the complexities of creating innovative solutions in the medical field.

In the fall of 2024, I collaborated with a team in my Biomechanics Lab to investigate the mechanical effects of fluoride on bone structure. Using porcine (pig) bones, we designed a project to analyze how varying molar concentrations of fluoride impacted bone properties. This involved treating bones with different concentrations of sodium fluoride, conducting dissections, and performing flexure tests to measure stress, strain, and other mechanical properties.

Through this project, we aimed to explore the potential thresholds where fluoride might enhance or weaken bone strength, contributing to the ongoing debate about the benefits and risks of fluoride exposure. Working with the limitations of an in vitro study, including the scale of available equipment and timeline, I refined my skills in experimental design, mechanical testing, and data analysis. This experience deepened my understanding of biomechanical principles and their application to real-world health and material challenges.

During my time in the MedMaIn lab under Dr. Brianna Raphino, I worked on a project aimed at improving the precision of mechanical thrombectomies. The goal was to enable real-time visualization during procedures, allowing surgeons to determine whether blood clots were being effectively removed or if the catheter was too far from the target area, which could risk vein collapse. Working with microscale components presented unique challenges, requiring a high level of accuracy and innovation.

To address these challenges, I designed and built a device that inflates within the catheter to securely press a sensor against its wall. This mechanism ensures accurate data transmission without compromising the catheter's functionality. Through this project, I developed advanced skills in precision prototyping, materials design, and problem-solving in high-stakes medical applications. It also deepened my understanding of biomechanics and strengthened my ability to tackle complex engineering challenges.

In the fall of 2022, during my freshman year at WPI, I participated in a research project for my Great Problems Seminar class, focusing on childhood obesity in low-income areas, with a specific emphasis on the South Bronx. Working in a team, we explored the challenges posed by obesity, particularly in neighborhoods where outdoor activity might be unsafe due to environmental and socioeconomic factors.

After conducting extensive research on the causes and impacts of childhood obesity, we proposed innovative solutions, including the use of virtual reality (VR) technology to promote indoor exercise in dangerous neighborhoods. This approach aimed to provide children with a safe and engaging way to stay active despite external challenges.

Our project culminated in a presentation at a campus-wide fair, where we showcased our findings and solutions. We were honored to receive the Judges’ Choice Award for our creativity and impact. Through this experience, I enhanced my teamwork abilities, problem-solving skills, and research capabilities, while learning how interdisciplinary approaches can address complex societal issues.

During the summer of 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to conduct research on aquariums throughout Japan as part of a WPI program. This project involved traveling to various locations to study the role of aquariums in public education, marine conservation, and cultural engagement. I analyzed exhibit designs, the incorporation of technology, and the ways aquariums communicated environmental awareness to diverse audiences.

One key focus of my research was evaluating how family-friendly attractions like the Kyoto Aquarium contributed to fostering an appreciation for marine life and sustainable practices. By observing and documenting these spaces, I gained valuable insights into the intersection of education, culture, and technology.

This experience enhanced my analytical and observational skills while deepening my understanding of how engineering and design can create impactful educational tools. It also reinforced my passion for marine conservation and the critical role that innovative public spaces play in inspiring environmental stewardship.