Believe it or not, this semester is the first time I am participating in a research lab! After 3 years of being an undergraduate engineering student at Viterbi, I am finally involved in CURVE, specifically in the MADLab. MADLab works on medical and analytical devices, particularly on creating and improving point-of-care diagnostics. The specific project that I am working on is focused on developing a cholesterol monitor that utilizes electrochemistry to detect these levels.
Although I only started researching recently, it has been such a fulfilling and insightful journey. I have learned so much about the world of electrochemistry, biosensors, cyclic voltammetry, and lab etiquette. I am finally translating the knowledge I have gained in the classroom, especially in engineering and chemistry, to a real-world solution!
Joining research as a junior shows that it is never too late to start! I have always marveled over biomedical devices, especially after working as a medical scribe this summer, so I was even more eager to participate in the CURVE program this year. I simply applied at the beginning of the cycle, and before I knew it, I was in the lab!
So far, this experience has really emphasized the significance of research, especially as an undergrad. The research lab is an environment full of brilliant individuals, experts in their fields, and helpful collaborators. I look forward to what the semester has in store!
