April 2025 - Bmegradstudents-list

[Bmeroundtable-list] BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Ryan Speitel (T. Kinzer-Ursem, advisor)
by May, Sandra M 25 Apr '25

25 Apr '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Ryan Speitel (T. Kinzer-Ursem, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 11:00 am. Title: Addressing Challenges of Probing Calcium-Dependent Signaling Systems by Developing a Dynamic, Hybrid, and Multiscale Framework Date/Time: April 30th, 11:00am Location: DLR 131 or Zoom - https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/U-pFyvjQRSun0RBk5gAT2w<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> Committee: Tamara Kinzer-Ursem (PI), Elsje Pienaar, Phillip Pare, Alejandra Magana Abstract: Calcium-dependent signaling plays a crucial role in the regulation of key biological functions, such as fertility, cardiac health, and memory formation. However, current methods struggle to capture how localized calcium dynamics scale to cellular and tissue level outcomes. Traditionally, researchers have used computational modeling frameworks, including MCell, VCell, and SMART, to model subcellular signaling. These frameworks allow simulating complex biological systems and signaling dynamics but face computational bottlenecks at larger spatiotemporal scales. This highlights a key challenge, as how do we develop an efficient calcium-dependent signaling model while preserving the required fidelity to capture how small changes in system components or calcium signaling dynamics lead to large differences in cellular and tissue states. We propose a hybrid, dynamic, and multiscale modeling framework that integrates several mechanistic modeling techniques, enabling on the fly adjustments to model resolution, balancing mechanistic detail and computational efficiency. Our approach addresses difficulties in hybrid modeling by introducing a holistic data architecture, transitional algorithms, and a generalized opinionated framework. In combination, these tools enable the rapid development and exploration of complex multiscale systems and unlock avenues for state driven surrogate model development. The preliminary utility of these methods has been demonstrated using a hybrid model of diffusion in a single subcellular unit. By enabling scalable, efficient multiscale simulations, this framework will enhance research into calcium-dependent disorders, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. -- 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 Jinheon Jeong (C. Lee, advisor)
by May, Sandra M 25 Apr '25

25 Apr '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Jinheon Jeong (C. Lee, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 11:00 AM. Research Title: Biodegradable Hollow Microneedle Patch for Dual-Phase and Eye Drop–Assisted Ocular Drug Delivery Date: April 30, 2025 Time: 11:00 AM Location: MJIS 2001 Committee Members: • Dr. Chi Hwan Lee (Advisor) • Dr. Young L. Kim • Dr. Sunghee E. Park • Dr. Yannis M. Paulus Abstract: Conventional ocular drug delivery methods, such as eye drops, suffer from poor bioavailability due to rapid clearance and limited penetration through ocular barriers. While intravitreal injections provide direct access to the posterior eye, they are invasive and require frequent administration. To address these challenges, we propose a biodegradable hollow microneedle (HMN) patch designed to enable both burst and sustained drug delivery to the sclera with the added capability of eye drop–assisted post-insertion dosing. The HMN consists of a PLGA shell for long-term structural support and sustained release, and a PVA-filled central channel for immediate release. Upon insertion into the eye using a dissolvable PVA back plate, the PVA core rapidly dissolves to allow an initial therapeutic burst. The remaining hollow channel facilitates repeated administration of liquid drugs through eye drops. Hydrophilic surface treatment using Pluronic® F-127 ensures efficient aqueous flow and reduces biofouling risk. Through a combination of in vitro, ex vivo, and computational studies, this project aims to demonstrate the mechanical reliability, dual-phase delivery performance, and clinical potential of the HMN platform. This novel system offers a minimally invasive, tunable alternative to current ocular drug delivery strategies. -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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PICR Career Development Series
by Siemers, Tammy R 24 Apr '25

24 Apr '25

Please join us at the next PICR Career Development Series event: A Panel Discussion with Assistant Professors: Graduate School, Postdoc, and Beyond Wednesday, April 30, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Drug Discovery Lobby Conference Room (DRUG) Join Drs. Shankar Thangamani, Qingfei Zheng, and Nathaniel Mabe for a candid conversation on navigating your academic career—from graduate school to securing a faculty position. Come with questions and take advantage of this chance to hear directly from early-career faculty. See attached flyer for more information. Register here<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue.ca…> For questions, please contact: Dr. Jiang Yang (yang1491(a)purdue.edu)

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Save the Date: Rising Stars Applications Open May 1!
by Siemers, Tammy R 23 Apr '25

23 Apr '25

From: Columbia BME <bme(a)columbia.edu> Sent: Thursday, April 17, 2025 1:28 PM To: Siemers, Tammy R <tsiemers(a)purdue.edu> Subject: Save the Date: Rising Stars Applications Open May 1! ---- External Email: Use caution with attachments, links, or sharing data ---- ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ‌ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ [image placeholder] The application for the 2025 Rising Stars in Engineering in Health Workshop, co-hosted by Columbia University, Boston University, Cornell University, and Johns Hopkins University will open on Thursday, May 1! Now in its sixth year, the two-day interactive workshop on Columbia University’s campus in NYC will feature rapid-fire research talks, educational presentations, mock interviews and panel discussions with faculty. Our goal is to recognize, prepare, and connect the next generation of leaders working at the interface of engineering and biomedicine. We welcome applicants who are postdoctoral fellows, research scientists, or graduate students planning to apply for faculty positions within two years. We especially encourage applicants from groups historically underrepresented in STEM disciplines. Previous workshop applicants are encouraged to reapply. Eligibility: Applicants must be doctoral students, postdoctoral fellows, or research scientists who plan to seek a faculty position in engineering and/or biomedicine within the next two years (positions starting Fall 2026). Selection: Twenty Rising Stars will be selected from the application pool as workshop participants and presenters. Application Requirements: Applicants should complete the application questions and submit the following materials as a single combined PDF. Please name your PDF file as follows before uploading: "LastNameFirstName_RisingStars2025Application" * Two-page academic statement that includes a summary of your research interests, your work to date, and your goals for the future. * One-page statement that briefly describes how your background and experiences have supported and fostered an understanding of diversity in engineering. Outline specific ways your plan to integrate this perspective into your future research and teaching at your target institution. * Your curriculum vitae (CV). Applicants are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible but no later than Tuesday, July 1, 2025, by 5pm EST. Important Dates: * Successful applicants will be notified via email by Friday, August 1, 2025 * If selected as a rising star, you must RSVP by Tuesday, August 5, 2025 * Waitlisted applicants must RSVP by Friday, August 8, 2025 Questions? Please contact Camryn Hadley, cah2289(a)columbia.edu<mailto:cah2289@columbia.edu> [Click Here to Learn More!] View email in browser<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmailchi.m…> Columbia University, Department of Biomedical Engineering · 500 W 120th St · 351 Engineering Terrace · New York, NY 10027-6623 · USA update your preferences<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcolumbia.…> or unsubscribe<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcolumbia.…>

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[Bmeroundtable-list] BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Samantha Mata Robles (J. Linnes, advisor)
by May, Sandra M 23 Apr '25

23 Apr '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Samantha Mata Robles (J. Linnes, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 1:00 pm. Title: A Human Centered Design Approach Towards the Point-of-Care Detection of Hepatitis C: The Integration of RT-LAMP and a Lateral Flow Test Exam details (in-person): MRGN 129 1:00 pm Exam (remote): Join Zoom Meeting https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/4309804015?omn=94073177876<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> (Meeting ID: 430 980 4015) Committee Members: Dr. Jaqueline Linnes, Dr. Natalia Rodriguez, Dr. Lia Stanciu, Dr. Lauren Nephew Abstract: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects an estimated 58 million people globally and remains a leading cause of preventable mortality in the United States, particularly among people who use drugs (PWUD). Despite the availability of effective treatments, late or incomplete diagnosis continues to hinder care- largely due to the lack of affordable, accessible, and rapid molecular diagnostic tests. Current near-point-of-care systems for HCV RNA detection are costly and require supporting infrastructure, limiting their feasibility in community-based settings such as harm reduction organizations. This proposal, grounded in a human-centered design (HCD) framework, aims to develop a sensitive, specific, and true point-of-care (POC) diagnostic platform for HCV RNA detection. The system will integrate reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) with a lateral flow test (LFT) for visual result readout. Technical and usability requirements will be co-developed with community health workers, HCV testers, and PWUD to ensure real-world adaptability and uptake. Preliminary data demonstrate successful primer design with high specificity and robust amplification in plasma, as well as proof-of-concept feasibility of LFT-based result interpretation. This project is expected to produce a field-forward diagnostic tool capable of expanding early HCV detection and treatment access in underserved communities. -- 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] Seminar Speaker April 30: Edgar Pena, PhD
by Rhonda Wolf Jones 23 Apr '25

23 Apr '25

Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering Distinguished Seminar Series Wednesday, April 30, 2025 9:30-10:20 am, MJIS 1001 *Note: Students enrolled in the seminar course are expected to attend in person. Zoom Link: https://purdueedu.zoom.us/j/92544114610<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdueedu…> “Advancing Neural Control Through Precision Neuromodulation: From Kilohertz-Frequency Nerve Block to Models of Vagus Nerve Recordings” [cid:image003.jpg@01DBB434.CD501C00] Edgar Peña, PhD Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota Abstract: Precise control over neural activity is essential for developing effective bioelectronic therapies for a variety of disorders and advancing neural interfaces. However, challenges in targeted neuromodulation and understanding physiological feedback mechanisms limit clinical translation. In this talk, I will discuss our recent work that addresses these challenges: (1) the development of kilohertz-frequency electrical nerve block without onset excitation to overcome a significant barrier to clinical implementation; (2) computational modeling and validation of compound nerve action potentials (CNAPs) from the vagus nerve to facilitate closed-loop neuromodulation; and 3) preliminary data demonstrating differential physiological responses to vagus nerve stimulation, highlighting individual variability in autonomic responses. Our findings show that by carefully tuning stimulation parameters—specifically using sufficiently high frequencies (≥20.8 kHz) with appropriately ramped signals (≥512 s)—we can achieve complete nerve block without undesired excitation, a previously unattained goal. Furthermore, our biophysically-based computational models of vagus nerve recordings, validated against in vivo experiments, offer critical insights into factors influencing signal features and methods for extracting physiologically relevant information from peripheral nerves. Together, these advancements lay the groundwork for precision neuromodulation technologies that can restore organ function after injury and provide new therapeutic approaches for conditions ranging from hypertension to inflammatory diseases through sophisticated closed-loop bioelectronic systems. Bio: Dr. Edgar Peña is an Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Minnesota, where he leads research on computational modeling to enable personalized neuromodulation therapies for techniques such as vagus nerve stimulation, which have broad applications to conditions such as heart failure, epilepsy, and inflammatory diseases. Dr. Peña previously completed postdoctoral training at Duke University, where he advanced methods for high-frequency nerve block, and earned his PhD from the University of Minnesota with a focus on spatially targeted deep brain stimulation. He is a recipient of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship. ~ BME Faculty Host: Matthew Ward, PhD ~ -- 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] Save the Date for Art in Research
by Rhonda Wolf Jones 22 Apr '25

22 Apr '25

[cid:image001.jpg@01DBB3B0.CEAECDA0] -- 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] Don't forget: Senior Design Day
by Rhonda Wolf Jones 22 Apr '25

22 Apr '25

[cid:image001.jpg@01DB9E56.08EFF040] -- 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 Julia Walsh (H. Lee, advisor)
by May, Sandra M 22 Apr '25

22 Apr '25

BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Julia Walsh (H. Lee, advisor) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 3:00 pm. Title: Systematic evaluation of antibiofouling coatings towards smarter and more reliable implantable devices Date/Time: May 1st at 3 pm Location: Zoom - https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/93092912797?pwd=YOwXHpWg49ISUQKRb9Z7Wbm0A2RB68…<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-ed…> Committee: Dr. Hugh Lee, Dr. Kenneth Dunn, Dr. Chi Hwan Lee, & Dr. Young Kim Abstract: Knowledge and treatment of many medical disorders may be advanced through the use of real-time monitoring devices such as implanted sensors and optical windows to identify and track biological events and processes leading to disease initiation and progression. However, the effectiveness and longevity of these real-time monitoring devices are potentially limited by biofouling and biocompatibility issues associated with protein adsorption, immune activation, and fibrosis after device placement. Protein adsorption can be reduced or prevented by surface modification of the implanted devices, including through the application of medical coatings. Yet, deciding which coatings will provide the best results is difficult due to a lack of standardization in approaches for coatings testing of biocompatibility. The work proposed here lays out a comprehensive analysis of approaches to address this problem and to examine biofouling in sensor and optical window systems. Initial studies will focus on the analysis of a range of coatings to assess coating stability in different environments, and the effects of coating application on sensor function. Two distinct sensor systems for biological molecules will be examined with initial studies focused on a sensor detecting the neurotransmitter dopamine. As a second approach, a novel sensor for prothrombin detection for cell-on-a-chip purposes will be studied to identify potential improvements with coatings applications. In a third study, the effect of implanting an optical window near the kidney in rodents will be undertaken to assess device biocompatibility via intravital microscopy. Results in this collaborative project are expected to demonstrate immune activation and vascularization accelerated by window implantation. The impact of a limited number of coatings on these processes are examined in preliminary studies. All together the work within this proposal is aimed at expanding an understanding of coating performance and the impact of biofouling during real-time monitoring applications, thus opening up new pathways for the study of complex diseases. -- 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] Seminar Speaker Wed: Garrett Stanley
by Rhonda Wolf Jones 21 Apr '25

21 Apr '25

Don't forget - BME Beats performance at 9:15 am prior to the seminar speaker. [cid:image001.png@01DBB2CC.74A478D0] [cid:image004.png@01DBB2CC.74D10710] -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list(a)ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list

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