November 2025 - Bmegradstudents-list

[Bmeroundtable-list] BME Master’s Defense Announcement for Eric J. Tan (T. Kinzer-Ursem, advisor)
by Sandra M May 13 Nov '25

13 Nov '25

BME Master’s Defense Announcement for Eric J. Tan (T. Kinzer-Ursem, advisor) This defense is open only to those who have signed the Lilly NDA. Title: AI-LAMP: A MODULAR POINT-OF-CARE DETECTION ASSAY FOR PROTEIN BIOMARKERS FOR PRECLINICAL ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE Date: 11/20/2025 Time: 1:00 PM Location: DLR 221 Committee: Tamara Kinzer-Ursem (advisor) Jacqueline Linnes Jean-Christophe Rochet Scott Bolton -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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BME Recruitment Open House Faculty and Current Grad Student Mixer (Indianapolis)
by Tammy R Siemers 13 Nov '25

13 Nov '25

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Weldon Graduate Program Announcements November 12th, 2025
by Tammy R Siemers 12 Nov '25

12 Nov '25

[4,354 Breaking News Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images] Weldon Graduate Program Announcements November 12th, 2025 * Career and Internship Opportunities * Gilead Early Talent Information Session * Apply now: Global accelerators for MedTech & Life Science startups * Master Business Meal Etiquette This Holiday Season * Informational Session on Dec. 9th for the ROMS Fellowship * Engineering Honors Program hiring TA for Spring 2026 * Rutgers University Biomedical Engineering Grad Program Info Session: Nov. 14th (5 PM EST) VIA ZOOM * Biomechanics and Mechanobiology Research Area 2026 Travel Grant * Deadline next week! Pitch Your Big Ideas for De Novo Protein Design to J&J Leaders * Workshops and Deadlines * News from You Career and Internship Opportunities Internship Positions * Mechanical Engineer Intern, Next Gen, Neuralink<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * 2026 Summer Intern PhD Student, Materials Characterization, Bristol Myers Squibb<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbristolmy…> * Intern, Development, Medical Affairs, Gilead<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgilead.ye…> * Engineering Internship, Nissha Medical Technologies<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * Intern Research and Development, Transplant and Transfusion, Werfen North America<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * Peripheral Interventions R&D Internship, Boston Scientific<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * Co-op, New Product Development Engineering, Hologic<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * 2026 US Summer Internship Program, Global Regulatory Affairs, Takeda<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjobs.bios…> * 2026 Oral Peptide Delivery Intern (PhD), abbvie<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjobs.bios…> * Intern, Engineer, ADMA Biologics<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjobs.bios…> * 2026 Intern, Technical Development, Moderna<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjobs.bios…> Postdoctoral Positions * NPA Website: https://careers.nationalpostdoc.org/jobs/<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcareers.n…> Full Time Positions * Research Assistant, The Robert J. & Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * Engineer III, Takeda<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjobs.bios…> * Research Biomedical Engineer, The Geneva Foundation<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * Program Manager, Algernon Group<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * Technical Product Support Specialist I, Nova Biomedical<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnovabio.h…> * Scientist II, Orion Group<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * R&D Engineer III, 3D Printing, Align Technology<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * Sr. R&D Engineer, Core Product, Align Technology<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> * BME Faculty Jobs List<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fericaprat…> * Purdue Start-up Job Board<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurduefou…>—Foundry Start Up Companies Looking to Hire * ACTS Career Center<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcareers.a…>—Association for Clinical and Translational Science * Academic Careers<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Facademicc…> * Doc Jobs<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.docjo…>—Jobs beyond traditional clinical and academic roles Gilead Early Talent Virtual Information Session, Gilead, November 18th (2:00-3:00 pm Pacific) Sign up https://gilead.yello.co/app/collect/event/AWFCP-Vh0BEMoS9RCqtWEQ<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgilead.ye…> Apply now: Global accelerators for MedTech & Life Science startups Applications for MedTech & BioTools Innovator 2026 are now open!<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjji.jnjin…> Johnson & Johnson is proud to support MedTech Innovator, BioTools Innovator, and MedTech Innovator Asia Pacific as they open applications for their 2026 programs. MedTech Innovator is the world's largest accelerator of life science companies, supporting early- to mid-stage startups that are transforming healthcare. These programs have an impressive track record supporting over 800 alumni, who have collectively raised $10B+ in follow-on funding, achieved 60 exits, and brought 500+ new products brought to market. Selected companies gain: · Mentorship & Industry Access – connections with leading strategics, investors, and stakeholders · Global Visibility – exposure at premier industry conferences · Funding Opportunities – $1M+ in awards + access to investor fundraising platform · Community & Credibility – a proven track record of helping startups accelerate commercialization If you’re a startup developing medical technology, life science tools, or digital health solutions, this is your chance to apply and join a global community of innovators. Applications are open now and close on December 1, 2025.<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedtechin…> Tata Global Internships See attached Launched in 2020, Tata Global Internships have empowered 1200+ students across 300+ projects. Tackle real-time business challenges and gain hands-on experience that goes beyond textbooks. This opportunity is open to students pursuing Bachelor's, Master's, MBA, or PhD across disciplines — STEM, Humanities, Social Sciences, Finance, HR, Marketing and more. Projects areas include Strategy & Consulting; Supply Chain & Operations; Marketing & Customer Experience; AI, Digital & Data Analytics; HR Management; Finance, FinTech & Investment; Sustainability & ESG and STEM & Innovation. Your offer will include visa sponsorship, travel, accommodation and a stipend. Questions? Email Priyanka Jobanpatra <priyanka.jobanputra(a)tata.com<mailto:priyanka.jobanputra@tata.com>> Master Business Meal Etiquette This Holiday Season As holiday gatherings and professional events draw near, it’s the perfect time to polish your business dining skills. OGSPS is excited to offer a new self-paced online training — curated by Anthony Cawdron, Purdue’s expert in event planning and etiquette — designed to help you navigate formal meals with confidence. From place settings to conversation tips, you’ll gain practical insights to make every business meal a success. Whether you're interviewing, networking, or celebrating with colleagues, understanding proper etiquette — especially in a U.S. context — helps you make a lasting impression and feel more at ease. ➤ Start the Business Meal Etiquette Training<https://www.eventreg.purdue.edu/training/Heading.aspx> - https://www.eventreg.purdue.edu/training/Heading.aspx  Access the training anytime, anywhere. Questions? Contact us at profdev(a)purdue.edu<mailto:profdev@purdue.edu> Informational Session on Dec. 9th for the ROMS Fellowship See attached The University of Michigan Medical School is recruiting for the 2026 Research Operations, Management & Strategy (ROMS) Fellowship. <https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedresear…> This fellowship is a two-year, paid, full-time position at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, MI. The program combines department rotations, hands-on learning experiences, and project work with administrative leaders to introduce PhD-trained fellows to business-focused career pathways that support academic research. Fellows develop an understanding of research infrastructure, finance, operations, administration, and strategy spanning various functions. Core focus areas include grant services, biomedical core facilities management, animal care, and clinical research support, among others. This broad exposure combined with mentorship from senior leaders, provides a powerful pipeline for bringing new talent into administrative roles at academic medical centers. We are offering an opportunity to learn more about the ROMS Fellowship on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 4:00-5:00 PM (EST) via Zoom. At this information session, program leadership and current fellows will discuss the program structure, review the 2026 application process, and answer FAQs and participant questions. You can register for the information session here<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.goog…> to receive the Zoom link. *Please note, to be eligible for the ROMS Fellowship, applicants must: 1) be a recent PhD graduate or postdoctoral trainee in a biomedical or life science-related field, 2) have all PhD degree requirements completed prior starting the fellowship (September 2026), and 3) be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident. Additional questions about the fellowship can be directed to our team at ROMS.Fellowship(a)umich.edu<mailto:ROMS.Fellowship@umich.edu> Engineering Honors Program hiring TA for Spring 2026 See attached The Engineering Honors Program at Purdue University is looking to hire a graduate teaching assistant for ENGR 16200 for the Spring 2026 semester, with the potential for a continuing GTA position in the Fall 2026/Spring 2027 academic year. This post provides a quick summary of the application process; I have also attached a document that gives a description of the position and related information. I would encourage you to review this document and this post before applying, and send any questions you might have to whalen(a)purdue.edu<mailto:whalen@purdue.edu>. Here are the details: · There is a Qualtrics survey that will act as the official application for a position. The link is as follows: https://purdue.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1NXEXSpxruyxabI<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue.ca…> Please fill out this survey if you would like to be considered for a position – applications will not be accepted in any other form. · The survey will ask you to submit a copy of your CV/resume, so be sure to have that ready to go before you start the survey. · Applications will be accepted starting on November 10th, and they are due by December 1st. However, we will start evaluating applications immediately, and we reserve the right to begin interviewing prospective candidates prior to the closing date. We look forward to hearing from you. Rutgers University Biomedical Engineering Grad Program Info Session: Nov. 14th (5 PM EST) VIA ZOOM See attached The Department of Biomedical Engineering at Rutgers University is having an information session for potential graduate students. Friday, November 14, 2025 Rutgers Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program Information Session 5:00 – 6:00 PM EST Register here to receive the Zoom link<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.goog…> We will discuss the department, our approach to graduate education, the strengths of our program, and our major research areas. Molecular, Cellular, and Biomaterials Engineering<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbme.rutge…> Biomechanics and Biofabrication<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbme.rutge…> Biomedical Imaging and Instrumentation<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbme.rutge…> Computational Bioengineering<Computational%20Bioengineering> Neuroengineering We hope to see you there! Biomechanics and Mechanobiology Research Area 2026 Travel Grant See attached To better support Ph.D. students conducting research in Biomechanics and Mechanobiology during these challenging budgetary times, we are launching a Travel Grant Program for 2026. This program is designed to assist students presenting their work at nationally and internationally recognized conferences. Key Details: · We are considering applications three times per year for funding. · Awards of up to $1,500 are available for oral presentations, and up to $1,000 for poster presentations at top conferences in the field. · We ask that faculty commit to covering any remaining travel costs. This may include assisting students in identifying additional funding sources such as other travel grants, sponsored funds, or discretionary accounts. · In return, we ask students to collaborate with us and Rhonda Jones to promote their work and raise the visibility of Purdue BME in Biomechanics and Mechanobiology research. · Funding is limited to two awards per cycle, supporting up to six students. Please see the attached application and guidelines for more information. Note: Only BME Ph.D. students whose advisor is affiliated with Biomechanics and Mechanobiology as a primary or secondary Research Area are eligible. The first deadline is November 24, 2025, for conference travel occurring between January 1 and April 30, 2026. Deadline next week! Pitch Your Big Ideas for De Novo Protein Design to J&J Leaders Pitching Critical Assessment for Therapeutic Protein Design (CAT-PD) QuickFire Challenge Johnson & Johnson is proud to announce the Pitching Critical Assessment for Therapeutic Protein Design (CAT-PD) QuickFire Challenge—an exciting opportunity for innovators worldwide to share their big ideas for computational techniques aimed at designing antibody sequences de novo against “hard-to-drug” targets. Apply for the opportunity to showcase your novel models and/or technologies during a closed-door presentation to Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine R&D leadership. To keep pace with the rapid innovation taking place in this space, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis by a team of J&J and NVIDIA experts. Application Deadline: November 21st, 2025<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjnjinnova…> Innovators around the world are invited to submit their novel technologies and/or techniques with sufficient detail to determine the potential to generate de novo designed sequences against a target of interest. Specific areas of interest include: · AI/ML models with the ability to predict and/or generate antigen-antibody binding interactions against a targeted epitope Technologies that are not in scope for this challenge include: * Platform capabilities wholly focused on small-molecule, peptide, or mini-protein-based modalities Workshops and Deadlines Here are some upcoming workshops and deadlines more detailed information about the workshops will be sent out separately closer to the event. Nov. 12th Successes, Surprises, and Pitfalls Workshop (1:30 – 2:30pm; WALC 1018) Nov. 12th Fellowship Coaching Hour (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 13th Sleeping for Success (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 13th Web Mapping for Beginners: Creating Interactive Maps with Leaflet and Mapbox (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 14th Rutgers University Biomedical Engr Grad Program Virtual Info Session (Register<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.goog…>) Nov. 14th Postdoc Power Session (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 18th Indiana CTSI AI Workshop Series: Participant Messaging Using AI for Study Marketing (Register<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Findianact…>) Nov. 17th Deadline to Register for 11/18 International Student Workshop: Job Offer Negotiation (CCO<https://www.cco.purdue.edu/Calendar/Event/879>) Nov. 19th Navigating the IRB Process and Submitting Your Study (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 19th Mindfulness (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 19th Navigating the IRB Process and Submitting Your Study (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 20th Exploring the Power of ArcGIS StoryMap for Research Communication (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 20th NIH Fellowship Opportunities for PhD Candidates and Postdoctoral Scholars (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 20th Staying Happy and Productive in Grad School (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Nov. 21st Deadline to apply for J&J Therapeutic Protein Design QuickFire Challenge (Apply<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjnjinnova…>) Nov. 24th NIH OITE Webinar Unit 5. Managing Up to Maximize Mentoring Relationships (Register<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.train…>) Dec. 1st Deadline to apply for MedTech Innovator/BioTools Innovator Programs (Johnson & Johnson<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedtechin…>) Dec. 2nd How to be a Good Reviewer (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 2nd Mindfulness (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 3rd How to Find and Prepare Fellowship Applications (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 3rd Postdoc Orientation: Employment Focus (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 3rd Postdoc Orientation: Success Focus (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 3rd Success Over Stress (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 4th Exploring Google Earth Engine for Spatial Analysis (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 4th Healthy Financial Habits (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 5th For Postdocs ONLY: Get to Know your Postdoc Office! (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 5th RCR: Discipline-Specific Training (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 5th SMART DoD Scholarship Program Application Deadline (Apply<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.smart…>) Dec. 9th Fellowship Coaching Hour (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Dec. 12th Postdoc Power Session (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Jan. 7th Postdoc Orientation: Employment Focus (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Jan. 7th Postdoc Orientation: Success Focus (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Jan. 12th Computational Research PhD Fellowships Info Session (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Jan. 13th How to Find and Prepare for Fellowship Applications (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Jan. 14th Interactive Fellowship Office Hour (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Jan. 20th MoISSI Fellowship Information Session (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) Jan. 20th NCR-SARE Fellowship (Agricultural Research) Info Session (GSPD<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgspd.gosi…>) News from You Please inform Tammy of honors, awards, or other accolades (to include having a paper published) you receive so that the Weldon School may recognize your accomplishments. Send the complete information – specific title and nature of the award, name of conference or event at which award was given, date of said event, photograph if available, etc. – to tsiemers(a)purdue.edu<mailto:tsiemers@purdue.edu>. Tammy Siemers She/Her Associate Director, Graduate Education BME Students (ONLY): Schedule appointments with me via BoilerConnect here<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue.ca…>. Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering 206 S. Martin Jischke Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2032 o: 765-496-0294 Achiever, Relator, Includer, Restorative, Developer [cid:image002.png@01DC53EC.DB465880]<https://www.purdue.edu/?utm_source=signature&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=…>

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME Master’s Defense Announcement for Samantha Eryn Mei Campbell (J. Linnes, advisor)
by Sandra M May 12 Nov '25

12 Nov '25

BME Master’s Defense Announcement for Samantha Eryn Mei Campbell (J. Linnes, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 2:00 PM. Title: Effects of Sterilization Methods on Methacrylated Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Microneedles Date: November 25, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM Location: MJIS 2001 and Zoom - https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/my/jlinnes<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.googl…> Committee members: Dr. Jacqueline Linnes (chair), Dr. Tamara Kinzer-Ursem, and Dr. Taimoor Hasan Qazi Abstract: Located just beneath the skin’s surface, interstitial fluid (ISF) contains a variety of analytes that serve as biomarkers for diseases. Hydrogel microneedles (HMNs) can extract analytes rapidly and painlessly from the dermal layer, making them a minimally invasive point-of-care (POC) diagnostic. Methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA) hydrogels were used because of their fast swelling and biocompatibility. The crosslinking nature of this hydrogel makes it tunable for targeted analyte uptake. This work contributes to the broader effort to develop an MeHA hydrogel microneedle platform for cortisol uptake in depression treatment monitoring. To translate these devices toward clinical testing, an effective sterilization method that reduces the risks of infection without compromising the mechanical and swelling properties of the hydrogel is needed. Although HMNs are minimally invasive, microneedle insertion breaks the skin barrier which can introduce pathogens into the body. Considering that MeHA hydrogel is sensitive to temperature and moisture, conventional sterilization methods, such as autoclaving, can impact hydrogel structure and performance. Vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) sterilization was explored in collaboration with the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. This approach aimed to successfully eliminate microorganism while preserving the hydrogel’s properties. The results of this work present VHP sterilization as a viable method for preparing MeHA hydrogel microneedles for translation to clinical testing. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME PhD Defense Announcement for Lucy Tecle (J. Linnes, advisor)
by Sandra M May 12 Nov '25

12 Nov '25

BME PhD Defense Announcement for Lucy Tecle (J. Linnes, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 9:00 AM. Title: Engineering Paper-based Diagnostics for Accessible Cervical Cancer Screening [cid:image001.png@01DC53B5.6B0FDD20] Date: November 25, 2025 Time: 9:00 AM Location: MJIS 2001 and Zoom - https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/9039977677<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> Committee members: Dr. Jacqueline Linnes (chair), Dr. Sulma Mohammed, Dr. Natalia Rodriguez, Dr. Lia Stanciu-Gregory Abstract: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, with the highest mortality rates occurring in resource-limited settings that lack access to early screening and preventive care. Antigen-based detection using paper-based platforms at the point of care offers a rapid and accessible diagnostic solution, requiring minimal equipment and training. In this work, paper-based diagnostic technologies and open-source automation tools were advanced to improve the accessibility, reproducibility, and scalability of point-of-care immunoassays. Detector antibodies were conjugated to gold nanoparticles as colorimetric complexes, with capture antibodies immobilized on paper to localize signal development. Characterization assays confirmed functional antibody-antigen binding, and enzymatic signal enhancement improved visual contrast to guide the selection of effective detection conditions. Paper-based immunoassays were designed and systematically optimized across dipstick, lateral flow, duplex, and sequential delivery formats to assess how material configuration, sample composition, and conjugate chemistry influenced signal generation and flow. These multi-modal design insights enabled the detection of clinically relevant cervical cancer biomarkers, including HPV16 L1 and MCM2, to improve sensitivity across assay formats. While the HPV16 L1 assay faced nonspecific binding challenges amidst stable conditions, the limit of detection for MCM2 was consistently 1 µg/mL. Complementing this work, a computer numerical control (CNC)-based workstation was developed to automate assay assembly with sub-millimeter precision, improving manufacturing consistency and reducing manual variability. These combined advancements bridge biological assay optimization with accessible hardware automation. Hence, this work enables decentralized, small-scale fabrication of reliable paper-based assays for early screening and equitable innovations in cervical cancer diagnostics. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME MS Defense Announcement for Maaz Khurram (T. Qazi, advisor)
by Sandra M May 12 Nov '25

12 Nov '25

BME MS Defense Announcement for Maaz Khurram (T. Qazi, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 9:30 AM. Title: Development of Naturally Derived Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Granular Hydrogels for Skeletal Muscle Tissue Repair Date: November 24th, 2025 Time: 9:30 AM Location: MRGN 129 and Zoom https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/98585758402?pwd=mnRJ2LKQHMnIvblsKXVDKcYG2JvCK3… <https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> Thesis Committee Members: Dr. Taimoor Qazi (Chair) Dr. Deva Chan Dr. Rachel Surowiec Abstract: Skeletal muscle injuries such as volumetric muscle loss (VML) result in excessive loss of muscle tissue, leading to permanent functional disability. Natural and synthetic biomaterial-based therapeutics have emerged as strategies to restore muscle tissue and function, providing a microenvironment that is crucial for guiding cell invasion and tissue repair. However, synthetic biomaterials lack the essential biochemical cues that regulate cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. In contrast, natural decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) based hydrogels have limited porosity for cell infiltration in a skeletal muscle repair context. In this thesis, we developed naturally derived dECM-Ru/SPS (dECM-Ruthenium/Sodium persulfate) granular hydrogels as a minimally invasive injectable therapeutic in response to VML injury in a mouse model. We hypothesize that dECM-Ru/SPS granular hydrogels retain the bioactive properties of the native ECM and facilitate endogenous cell invasion for tissue regeneration and recovery, compared to bioinert PEGDA granular hydrogels. For this purpose, dECM-Ru/SPS microgels were fabricated via water-in-oil batch emulsions and assembled into dECM-Ru/SPS granular hydrogels with centrifugation. Moreover, rheological characterization of dECM-Ru/SPS granular hydrogels exhibited tunable viscoelastic and shear-thinning behavior suited for minimally invasive injectable applications. Subsequently, we determined the porosity of dECM-Ru/SPS granular hydrogels to understand their potential for cell invasion and tissue growth. Furthermore, in an in vivo VML injury model, we observed enhanced bioactivity of dECM-Ru/SPS granular hydrogels compared to PEGDA granular hydrogels, as evidenced by a decrease in wound area over 4 weeks, which promotes early vascularization and the formation of newly regenerated myofibers. Altogether, these findings highlight the promising potential of injectable and porous dECM-Ru/SPS granular hydrogels, which retain essential biochemical cues for endogenous repair after muscle injury. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Sukwoo Shaun Hong (Y. Kim, advisor)
by Sandra M May 11 Nov '25

11 Nov '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Sukwoo Shaun Hong (Y. Kim, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 1:30 PM. Title: Standardized intelligent radiomics of conjunctiva photographs for systemic microvascular diseases Date: December 11th, 2025 Time: 1:30 PM Location (virtual): https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/my/shaungh<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> Committee: Young L. Kim, Chair Steven R. Steinhubl Ulrike Dydak Yunjie Tong Rachel K. Surowiec Abstract: The tiny, intricate network of blood vessels in our inner eyelid is a hidden window to our body's overall health. Many serious diseases (e.g., malaria, anemia, hypertension during pregnancy), from acute to chronic conditions, leave subtle, invisible signatures on these microvessels long before other symptoms appear. However, reading these signs is impossible for the human eye, and current diagnostic tools are often invasive, expensive, or unavailable in community settings. This project introduces spatiotextural approach called conjunctival radiomics. We use an ordinary smartphone to take a simple, safe photograph of the inner eyelid. Then, sophisticated computer algorithms analyze the image to quantify thousands of textural and structural patterns in the microvasculature that the naked eye cannot see. The goal is to develop and lock a standardized pipeline that reliably extracts quantitative biomarkers from conjunctival photographs captured with unmodified, off-the-shelf smartphones. We will first prove the platform's validity by testing its ability to screen for diseases with well-known microvascular damage: malaria in children and high blood pressure in pregnancy. We will then deploy the platform to make a new discovery: identifying hidden, clinically important subtypes of anemia based on their unique microvascular signatures. If successful, this research will establish a low-cost and accessible screening tool that can help clinicians in schools and local clinics identify at-risk patients earlier, guiding confirmatory testing and enabling more timely care. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Khalid Khalaf (J. Linnes and T. Kinzer-Ursem, Co-Advisors)
by Sandra M May 07 Nov '25

07 Nov '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Khalid Khalaf (J. Linnes and T. Kinzer-Ursem, Co-Advisors) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 12:30PM. Title: The Development of a Cortisol Electrochemical Sensor for Depression Treatment Personalization Date: November 18, 2025 Time: 12:30PM Location: MJIS 2001 Committee: Dr. Jacqueline Linnes (Chair), Dr. Tamara Kinzer-Ursem (Co-Chair), Dr. Susan Conroy (Member), Dr. Rahim Rahimi (Member) Abstract: Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects more than 25 million adults in the United States. Treatment selection commonly relies on trial and error, reflecting limited availability of objective physiological markers. Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, indicated by altered cortisol secretion patterns, has been documented in several depressive subtypes and may normalize with effective therapy. Cortisol therefore represents a potential biomarker for treatment response. Conventional assays for cortisol measurement, such as venipuncture and saliva collection, provide only discrete time points and require laboratory analysis, which constrains temporal resolution and clinical utility. These methods are not suited for continuous monitoring of neuroendocrine dynamics. This project develops a minimally invasive hydrogel microneedle platform incorporating a methylene blue-labeled electrochemical aptamer sensor designed to enable future continuous measurement of cortisol in interstitial fluid (ISF). The present work will establish the analytical feasibility of reagent-free cortisol detection and evaluate ISF as a reliable sampling medium, laying the groundwork for subsequent clinical validation during transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy. Future continuous monitoring systems could support correlation of real-time cortisol changes with clinical outcomes, enabling development of data-driven models of neuroendocrine response. The resulting measurements may provide a basis for individualized assessment of treatment effects and facilitate objective evaluation of therapeutic interventions targeting HPA axis regulation in depressive disorders. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Mary Micere Wanduka (Dr. Jacqueline Linnes, Advisor)
by Sandra M May 06 Nov '25

06 Nov '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Mary Micere Wanduka (Dr. Jacqueline Linnes, Advisor) Title: Towards Field-Ready Lyophilized Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) reagents for Point-of-Care Diagnostics Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation, which begins at 1:00 p.m. Date: November 21, 2025 Time: 1:00 p.m. Location: MRGN 129 and Zoom Zoom link: https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/my/jlinnes<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> Committee members: Dr. Jacqueline Linnes (chair), Dr. Tamara Kinzer-Ursem, Dr. Alina Alexeenko, and Dr. Greg Sacha Abstract: Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has gained popularity in point-of-care (POC) diagnostics due to its high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid nature. LAMP's effectiveness is dependent on the stability of Bacillus stearothermophilus (Bst) DNA polymerase, which is heavily reliant on the cold chain. Lyophilization has emerged as a solution to address cold chain challenges, including storage, shipping, and supply, yet its application in point-of-care molecular assays remains a challenge. Developing a lyophilization protocol for molecular assays has relied on trial and error, often facing challenges such as inconsistent performance, a lack of transferability, often slow and costly. Therefore, a systematic workflow that unites three complementary layers: experimental readout, predictive protein-centered degradation modeling, and post-lyophilization to reveal how formulation and processing dictate the stability of POC reagents. This research focuses on three main aims: (I) Developing a lyophilization protocol for a HIV-1 Particle diffusometry (PD)-Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) system. (II) Develop a statistical model guided Bst 2.0 polymerase Degradation Analysis. (III) Correlating physical to molecular degradation of lyophilized LAMP systems. We completed Aim I by stabilizing our PD-LAMP system for approximately four months using trehalose. Our preliminary statistical model in Aim II is ongoing, which identified glycerol as a key driver of Bst's degradation, while other formulation components exhibited synergistic and contributory effects, enabling the recognition of two new excipients. We will analyze the two new excipients in Aim III, linking post-lyophilization, empirical, and molecular stability to build a predictive framework for formulation design. This research serves as a gateway to downstream applications, transferable to other related fields. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Mikayla A. Roach (Dr. Deva Chan, Advisor)
by Sandra M May 06 Nov '25

06 Nov '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Mikayla A. Roach (Dr. Deva Chan, Advisor) Title: Synoviocyte Mechanobiology of Hyaluronan Metabolism Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 10:00 AM. Date: November 18, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM Location: DLR 221 and Zoom Zoom link: https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/8311008712?omn=98335396890<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> Committee Members: Dr. Deva Chan (Chair); Dr. Elizabeth Blaber; Dr. Leopold Green; Dr. Estelle Park Abstract: Osteoarthritis is one of the most common musculoskeletal diseases and it significantly reduces quality of life for those affected. The severe consequences of osteoarthritis such as joint stiffness, inflammation, and excruciating pain warrant further study into the disease's etiology. There is no known cure for osteoarthritis. Options to attenuate the negative effects of the disease include physical therapy, pain medications, intra-articular injections, and whole joint replacement. Physical activity is the primary non-pharmacologic therapy prescribed to patients to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis. However, not all patients with osteoarthritis are able to complete physical therapy at an intensity and duration deemed effective. Mechanical loading can be considered a mimetic of physical activity and has proven to be an effective method to alter the production of hyaluronan and extracellular vesicles. As more connections between mechanobiology, extracellular matrix production, and disease are discovered, studying the role of mechanical stimuli on osteoarthritis progression may reveal new ways to slow or stop the disease. Therefore, it is important to further evaluate the function of loading in changing the behavior of cells found in joints. I aim to develop a deeper understanding of the processes related to hyaluronan production by comparing hyaluronan metabolism in primary cells and cell lines, analyzing how differences in the cellular microenvironment alter hyaluronan metabolism, and determining how the application of mechanical load effects hyaluronan metabolism. I will also explore new methods of replicating effects of physical activity in terms of hyaluronan metabolism using extracellular vesicles and a novel synthetic bacterium. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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