Research

Research Papers

I consider my decision to join science research as one of the smartest choices I've ever made. It has been an invaluable opportunity that allows me to merge my passion for engineering with scientific knowledge in any project. In the course of my freshman year, I explored biology deeply, acquiring practical understanding through working with a model organism: C.elegans. Mastering techniques in bacterial cultivation, aseptic procedures to prevent contamination, and strategically applying chemicals for worm biology manipulation in research were my accomplishments. I tested the effect of Taurine on the C.elegans as they physically responded to chemical changes in their neural networks. C.elegans have a relation to dopamine to their growth, where the more dopamine the more growth a C.elegan undergoes. This is due to them using dopamine as a food indicator where the more food they have the greater release of dopamine and thus greater growth. Taurine was seen to increase dopamine production as C.elegans induced with even low dosage of Taurine has significantly faster growth then the control. My freshman research year helped build my passion for science research and pushing to make discoveries. As I transitioned into my sophomore year, an engineering-oriented project involving the construction and optimization of an electrolysis system became my focus. This endeavor required me to delve deeply into material science as well as chemical reactions pertinent to energy production. In my studies, I explored the applicability of various electrodes in electrolysis cells, specifically investigating how changes to solution composition could impact efficiency levels. By constructing and enhancing an electrolysis system, I deepened my understanding of its underlying principles, a process that also fostered essential engineering skills like problem-solving, design development and practical fabrication methods. 

During my sophmore year year, I discerned the essential role that electrode element properties play in efficiency. That being, materials exhibiting higher density had a propensity for prolonged longevity; however, they bore lesser electronegativity, a factor which culminated into a diminished hydrogen potential. Consequently, Aluminum and Tin emerged as my optimal choices for electrode materials due to their demonstrated ability to strike an efficient durability and hydrogen potential balance. Thorough exploration of scientific papers and news articles provided me with insights into these breakthroughs, which validate my findings against the latest research. Particularly intriguing and impactful, tin emerged as an optimal option while aluminum, due to its lacking density and rapid degradation, failed to meet necessary requirements. If developers create more efficient and durable water electrolyzers, potentially making hydrogen production cost-effective and accessible, this may accelerate our shift towards a cleaner economy of energy. 

Coming into my Junior Year I began partner work in order to create our own unique "bandaid." Our research revealed a multifaceted approach to wound healing using hydrogel films. By incorporating a mixture of tung oil and beeswax, we balanced the films' hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity. Manuka Honey-infused hydrogel films showed promising antibacterial and antioxidant properties, offering a potential solution for chronic wounds. The cost analysis indicated these films are substantially more affordable than conventional surgical wound dressings. The hydrogel films' slime-like consistency, pliability, and elasticity make them effective for wound care, ensuring both protection and patient comfort. Significant antibacterial efficacy was demonstrated, highlighting their potential in combating bacterial infections. The integration of natural therapies could enhance healing times and reduce complications. Scalable production of these hydrogel dressings enhances economic viability, reducing financial burdens and enabling widespread adoption. The hydrogels not only save costs but also shorten healing times, benefiting overall healthcare expenses. Our innovative and economical hydrogel films address physical, antibacterial, and economic factors, potentially revolutionizing chronic wound care by improving accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability in healthcare settings.