By conducting hands-on experiments, students gain insight into cutting-edge engineering and technologies relevant to addressing medical problems and developing medical devices. They are exposed to multidisciplinary research, including its structure and implementation, as well as how to work and communicate within a team with diverse backgrounds. Students also learn to think creatively about problems, actively pursue their research objectives by seeking input from experts, trying out new approaches, developing skills to delve deeper into their problems, documenting their efforts, and writing up the outcomes for papers and conferences, among others. 

The Research Experience for Undergraduates program's interconnected thematic elements are healthcare research, innovation, from concept to clinical adoption, and medical devices. The research project offerings extend beyond medical devices, as it is essential to understand physiological environments to innovate solutions, and these solutions should not be constrained by the method. In line with our four intellectual foci — learning, innovating, exploring, and applying — we offer various research projects that the students can choose from during the application process and, upon acceptance, in consultation with their faculty mentors. 

Project 1. Computational Strategies for Characterizing Sensory Neuron Phenotypes Based on Extracellular Electrophysiology

Faculty Mentor: Professor Bryan Black

Students working on this project will help develop or validate computational tools for analyzing multi-parametric phenotypic data sets collected from Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) models of acute and inflammatory nociception. The overarching goal of this funded research is to develop and characterize a novel phenotypic model of acute and chronic nociception based on hiPSC sensory neurons cultured and differentiated on microelectrode arrays (MEAs). However, the currently proposed methods of analysis may not capture the complexity of the MEA data or how it relates to biomolecular data sets. Therefore, there is a need in our lab and in the field of pain science and neuroscience research to develop or validate novel statistical approaches to extracellular electrophysiology data analysis (e.g., hierarchical clustering analysis) and correspond these outcomes with biomolecular assays. This project will provide students the opportunity to learn extracellular electrophysiology data collection, signal processing and filtering, Matlab coding, and statistical tools for multi-parametric analysis.

Project 2. Behavioral, Biomolecular, and Immunoarchitectural Characterization of Amputation Neuroma

Faculty Mentor: Professor Bryan Black

In collaboration with clinicians at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, students will help collect and analyze behavioral, secretomic, and immuno-architectural data from animal models of traumatic injury / amputation pain. The overarching goal of this funded research is to better understand the histological and architectural features of traumatic/amputation neuroma – a benign peripheral nerve tumor that serves as a focal point for pain in many patients. To do so, we employ an established rodent model of amputation pain to develop and characterize symptomatic neuromas. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to interact with clinicians and perform preliminary histochemical analyses from human neuroma samples.

During this project, the students will learn clinical outcomes related to traumatic peripheral nerve injury and amputation, clinical strategies for intervention and/or pain management, as well as technical skills related to antibody staining and subsequent image analysis/quantification. The data processed in this project will inform preclinical and, subsequently, clinical/commercial strategies for traumatic neuroma intervention.

Project 3: Laser SpeckLe field Microscopy (SLIM) for 3-dimensional Micro-mechanical Imaging of the Extra-Cellular Matrix (ECM)

Faculty Mentor: Professor Zeinab Hajjarian

Excessive and irregular micro-mechanical remodeling of the ECM is implicated in a broad spectrum of pathologies, including cardiovascular disease, fibrotic disorders, and cancer, which together account for over 50% of deaths worldwide. Nevertheless, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms is severely limited as no imaging tools are currently available for micromechanical mapping of the ECM at length scales pertinent to cells. This project aims to develop and validate a laser SpeckLe fIeld Microrheology (SLIM) technology for micromechanical tissue mapping with high spatial resolution and long depth range. The proposed technology is based on measuring the time-varying speckle intensity fluctuations. A speckle is a grainy intensity pattern formed when a coherent laser beam is backscattered from tissue. Brownian displacements of scattering particles within the ECM dynamically modulate the speckle fluctuations. These fluctuations are intimately related to the viscoelastic properties of imaged tissue. In compliant regions, unrestricted Brownian displacements provoke rapidly fluctuating speckle spots, whereas, in rigid areas, restrained motions elicit limited intensity variations of speckle grains. The capability of SLIM for 3-dimensional, high-resolution, micromechanical imaging of the ECM will provide new insight and scientific knowledge regarding the micro-mechanical basis of pathogenesis at the onset of disease. It will also allow the testing of multiple hypotheses of high clinical impact about therapeutic targeting of the ECM and the downstream mechanical-transduction signaling pathways, which could likely prevent the pathogenesis at its source. During this project, students will be deeply engaged in the setup of the optical instrumentation and creating image reconstruction algorithms. Additionally, they will be involved in validating and benchmarking the performance parameters of the SLIM modality. This will be accomplished by characterizing hydrogel phantoms and biological tissues using the SLIM technique and well-established mechanical testing methods.

Project 4. Optimizing Intranasal Drug Delivery for Targeted Therapeutics

Faculty Mentor: Professor Jinxiang Xi

Intranasal drug delivery is emerging as a popular method for administering medications due to its non-invasive nature, ease of self-administration, and its ability to deliver therapeutics to highly vascularized regions of the nasal cavity for rapid absorption. This method is being used to treat various conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases through nose-to-brain (N2B) delivery, mucosal protection, and more, highlighting its potential as a versatile and efficient delivery system. This project focuses on optimizing intranasal drug delivery for specific therapeutic targets within the nasal cavity. Students will be introduced to the anatomy and physiology of the nasal cavity and learn about the unique challenges and opportunities it presents for drug delivery.

Participants will:

  • Explore in vitro testing techniques used to evaluate and optimize medication delivery to targeted regions within the nasal cavity.
  • Learn about the design and development of drug formulations and delivery devices tailored for intranasal use.
  • Gain hands-on experience with computational engineering tools such as ANSYS and COMSOL Multiphysics to perform simulations that inform the design and engineering of nasal drug delivery techniques and devices.
  • Engage in supervised experimental studies using high-fidelity anatomically accurate nasal cavity geometries, 3D-printed models, and visualization techniques to analyze and refine delivery parameters.

By the end of the program, students will have developed delivery parameters to ensure doses are efficiently delivered to specific regions within the nasal cavity. Computational simulations will complement these findings, providing a holistic approach to optimizing intranasal drug delivery methods.

Project 5. Mapping the current processes of cervical and breast cancer screening for Hispanics in a rural state.

Faculty Mentor: Professor David Claudio

Summary: This project will focus on creating a Current State and Future State Value Stream Map (VSM) of the processes Hispanic females go through for cervical and breast cancer screening in Gallatin County, Montana. A student will learn how to create current and future state VSM. Concepts of lean manufacturing/healthcare will also be taught to the student. The student will then interview several entities via Zoom to decipher the patient, provider, and information flow for the current state VSM. The student will then brainstorm ideas on improving current processes and creating a future state VSM. A draft of a conference or journal article will be required as a final product. Fluency in Spanish is preferred but not required.

Project 6. Evaluating the Impact of High School Research Experiences in Medical Devices on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Identity Formation

Faculty Mentor: Professor Yanfen Li

This project explores how professional development and orientation programs shape high school students' experiences in research and influence their STEM identity formation. Participants will analyze program data, conduct surveys and interviews with students and mentors, and examine the relationship between training modules and research experiences on students' self-perception as STEM learners and future professionals. The project aims to identify strategies that foster students’ confidence, sense of belonging, and long-term engagement in STEM.

Project 7. Plant-Based Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications

Faculty Mentor: Professor Yanfen Li

In tissue engineering applications, scaffolds are necessary to provide structure and rigidity to the new tissue and guide cells toward desirable functions. Instead of artificially replicating the complexity of scaffolds in nature, it is possible to repurpose existing plant matter by removing the native cells (decellularization), leaving behind a natural scaffold for new cells to inhabit. This project aims to analyze the mechanical properties of several plant-based scaffolds to optimize the matching of scaffolds to future intended tissues. In this project, students will learn how to decellularize plants, how to perform cell culture, and how to conduct a variety of mechanical testing. Students will also learn how to translate their learning to develop an at-home learning kit that teaches high school and undergraduate students about tissue decellularization.

Project 8. Organoid-based microbe-epithelial cell coculture model for developing personalized therapies for inflammatory diseases

Faculty Mentor: Professor Soumita Das

The interactions between gut microbes and host cellular pathways are essential in enteric infections, gastrointestinal diseases, and other chronic diseases. To understand disease pathogenesis, developing a cell model that mimics physiological situations and is closer to humans than the existing animal models is essential. Utilizing recent developments in stem-cell biology, we have developed an organoid-based cell model from humans or mice that is cocultured with immune/nonimmune cells and microbes associated with the disease. This model is useful to investigate mechanisms for gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases, both oncogenic and non-oncogenic. In collaboration with Department Chair Walfre Franco’s lab in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, we are modifying this model in a semi-high-throughput (HTP) format by adding microfluidics to the tissue culture plate and optimizing the microenvironment. At the start of the project, the semi-HTP inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) model will be used to identify new therapeutic targets, understand the impact of microbes, and screen existing drugs and nutritional supplements. This project needs collaboration with scientists from diverse backgrounds with expertise in biotechnology, cell biology, microbiology, and computational science. Functional assays, including gut barrier integrity, transcriptional profiles, and multiplex cytokine assays, will validate the predicted targets for IBD. The semi-HTP format of the cell model with several patient-derived organoids could help develop personalized therapies in the future. Students' activities include building microfluidic chips, imaging particle tracers, and inputting experimental measurements to computational models to characterize forces around organoid models. Students will learn about microfluidic chip fabrication, particle image velocimetry, computer fluid dynamics, and mechanotransduction.

Project 9. Development of Tissue Sampling Devices for Assembling Skin Constructs for Regenerating Skin

Faculty Mentor: Professor Walfre Franco

Despite decades of concerted efforts to develop alternatives, autologous skin grafting remains the gold standard for wound repair. Still, it comes with the cost of substantial and often permanent donor-site morbidity. Full-thickness skin tissue micro-grafts can be extracted with minimal donor site morbidity. Can skin be copied if we extract full-thickness skin micro grafts from a donor site, insert them into an optimized scaffold, and graft the skin copy? This project focuses on developing tissue sampling devices for assembling skin constructs for regenerating skin. Students will learn about device design, prototyping, and testing of functional blocks. Students will assist with developing skin grafting devices by using computer-aided design software, additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, among other fabrication methods.

Project 10. Development of Systems and Methods for Continuous Noninvasive Monitoring of Cellular Oxygen Utilization

Faculty Mentor: Professor Walfre Franco

More than half of all hospital deaths are caused by sepsis, and patients who die of sepsis succumb to the ensuing multiorgan failure. As oxygen utilization in a cell becomes deficient, changes in mitochondrial redox state precede cellular, tissue, and organ function changes. Mitochondrial damage occurs during sepsis, such as the impairment of oxygen extraction and utilization, and the severity of mitochondrial dysfunction has been shown to correlate with increased patient mortality. Therefore, a significant need exists for methods to evaluate mitochondrial utilization of oxygen continuously. This project focuses on developing optical, acoustic, and machine-learning systems and methods for continuous noninvasive monitoring and real-time analysis of cellular oxygen utilization. Students will help develop computer algorithms and photoacoustic methods for quantifying and analyzing variations in the optical environment of tissues. Students will learn about computational modeling, machine learning, and how light is used to measure tissue oxygenation and could be used to measure oxygen consumption.

Project 1. Computational Strategies for Characterizing Sensory Neuron Phenotypes Based on Extracellular Electrophysiology

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Bryan Black
Students working on this project will help develop or validate computational tools for analyzing multi-parametric phenotypic data sets collected from hiPSC models of acute and inflammatory nociception. The overarching goal of this funded research is to develop and characterize a novel phenotypic model of acute and chronic nociception based on hiPSC sensory neurons cultured and differentiated on microelectrode arrays (MEAs). However, the currently proposed methods of analysis may not capture the complexity of the MEA data or how it relates to biomolecular data sets. Therefore, there is a need in our lab and in the field of pain science and neuroscience research to develop or validate novel statistical approaches to extracellular electrophysiology data analysis (e.g., hierarchical clustering analysis) and correspond these outcomes with biomolecular assays. This project will provide students the opportunity to learn extracellular electrophysiology data collection, signal processing and filtering, Matlab coding, and statistical tools for multi-parametric analysis. 

Project 2. Behavioral, Biomolecular, and Immunoarchitectural Characterization of Amputation Neuroma

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Bryan Black
In collaboration with clinicians at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA, students will help collect and analyze behavioral, secretomic, and immunoarchitectural data from animal models of traumatic injury/amputation pain. The overarching goal of this funded research is to better understand the histological and architectural features of traumatic/amputation neuroma – a benign peripheral nerve tumor that serves as a focal point for pain in many patients. To do so, we employ an established rodent model of amputation pain to develop and characterize symptomatic neuromas. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to interact with clinicians and perform preliminary histochemical analyses from human neuroma samples. During this project, the students will learn clinical outcomes related to traumatic peripheral nerve injury and amputation, clinical strategies for intervention and/or pain management, as well as technical skills related to antibody staining and subsequent image analysis/quantification. The data processed in this project will inform preclinical and, subsequently, clinical/commercial strategies for traumatic neuroma intervention.

Project 3. Developing Functional Biomaterials that Mimic Natural Tissues and Facilitate the Repair and Regeneration of Damaged Tissues

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Gulden Camci-Unal
The goal of this research project is to control and modulate cellular behavior for directing the repair and regeneration of tissues. Students will learn about using diverse tools from chemistry, cell biology, materials science, microfabrication, and engineering. Students will contribute to the development of multicellular and compartmentalized tissue mimetics for clinical applications, such as endothelialization of cardiovascular tissues, regeneration of bone, and invasion of tumors.

Project 4. Developing Point-of-Care Diagnostic Platforms for the Rapid Detection of Pathogenic Diseases, Health Conditions and Environmental Reagents

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Gulden Camci-Unal
This project aims to develop in vitro disease models for personalized medicine and low-cost point-of-care diagnostics to solve problems in global health. An exemplary project is the development of rapid and simple tests for the detection of the COVID-19 virus from bodily fluids in only 5 minutes, contributing to improving global health outcomes. Students will learn about applying diverse tools from chemistry, cell biology, materials science, microfabrication, and engineering to develop devices and methods for personalized medicine and low-cost point-of-care diagnostics to solve problems in global health.

Project 5. Development of Tissue Micro-Sampling Devices for Assembling Skin Constructs for Regenerating Skin

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Walfre Franco
More than half of all hospital deaths are caused by sepsis, and patients who die of sepsis succumb to the ensuing multiorgan failure. As oxygen utilization in a cell becomes deficient, changes in mitochondrial redox state precede cellular, tissue, and organ function changes. Mitochondrial damage occurs during sepsis, such as the impairment of oxygen extraction and utilization, and the severity of mitochondrial dysfunction has been shown to correlate with increased patient mortality. Therefore, a major need exists for methods to continuously evaluate mitochondrial utilization of oxygen. This project focuses on developing optical, acoustic, and machine-learning systems and methods for continuous noninvasive monitoring and real-time analysis of cellular oxygen utilization. Students will help develop computer algorithms and photoacoustic methods for quantifying and analyzing variations in the optical environment of tissues. Students will learn about computational modeling, machine learning, and how light is used to measure tissue oxygenation and could be used to measure oxygen consumption. 

Project 6. Characterization of the Flow-Induced Mechanical Forces that Modulate Ovarian Cancer

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Walfre Franco
Within the ovarian tumor microenvironment, flow-induced mechanical stimuli are a poorly understood factor that plays a crucial role in facilitating dismay clinical outcomes. This project aims to study the hydrodynamic forces that modulate ovarian cancer biology in a chip perfusion model for 3D tumor microenvironment growth. Students' activities include building microfluidic chips, imaging particle tracers, and inputting experimental measurements to existing computational models to characterize forces around tumor nodules. Students will learn about microfluidic chip fabrication, particle image velocimetry, computer fluid dynamics, and mechanotransduction.

Project 7. Development of Gingival Tissue Models

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Chiara Ghezzi
A major paradigm shift in medicine underscores the central role of the microbiome, communities of commensal organisms, in human healthy and diseased states.  Complex interactions between members of the oral microbiota were demonstrated by direct visualization within the supragingival plaque, implying that potential interactions between different organisms are determined by proximity and function.  Plaque topography suggests that gradients of nutrients, wetness, and oxygen promote the formation of these microenvironments in which oral commensals actively maintain healthy homeostasis. In order to understand these systems, in vitro reconstructions of plaque are key tools for mechanistic studies with great translational impact.  Our hypothesis is that an anatomical 3D gingival tissue model with the capacity to replicate native physical and structural conditions in combination with commensal oral bacteria will provide a more authentic metabolic environment with which to study pathogen organization and to investigate in vitro tissue responses to physical changes and exposure to therapeutics. We developed an in vitro 3D gingival tissue model based on a silk and collagen biopolymer scaffold populated with human primary gingival epithelial and stromal cells. In addition, our system allows the replication of low oxygen conditions in a physiologically relevant gingival pocket to support the maintenance and organization of inoculated human plaque.  A relevant level of microbial diversity and visualization of microbial aggregates were successfully maintained in the model.  Sustainability of these cultures over longer periods of time will provide a system for long-term studies of oral pathogenic colonization and infection and calibration of biomarkers from clinical exudates in the cases of periodontal health and dental-plaque induced gingivitis. The REU students will work closely with the PI (Ghezzi) and the lab graduate students to support the research activities in this thrust. The student will be responsible for routine activities such as protein and construct preparation, histology, immunohistochemistry, and microfluidic system setup and validation.

Project 8. Cortical Tissue Model to Study the Effect of Ionizing Radiation

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Chiara Ghezzi
After the 9/11 attacks, research efforts have been established to ensure medical readiness to address civilian casualties in the wake of a radiation public health emergency. Ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays, x-rays, or protons, is also associated with radiation-induced cognitive decline, likely due to a disruption of ‘healthy’ neuronal network function. We aim to develop a novel 3D, human cell-based cortical tissue model exposed to ionizing radiation that enables high-content assessment of neuronal network function. We will use commercially available and well-characterized iPSC glutamatergic/GABAergic neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia. Leveraging our UMass Lowell Radiation Laboratory facilities, we will expose our CTM to radiation mimicking external exposure in a nuclear fallout situation and subsequently quantify cell viability, DNA damage, cell morphology, reactive oxygen species abundance, and changes in neuronal network activity using a multi-well microelectrode array system. The REU students will work closely with the PIs (Ghezzi and Black) and the lab graduate students to support the research activities in this thrust. The student will be responsible for routine activities such as protein and construct preparation, experimental setup preparation, and functional assessment readouts.

Project 9. Developing Microfluidic Diagnostic Devices for Crime Labs

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Yanfen Li
According to RAINN statistics, out of every 1000 sexual assaults, 995 perpetrators will walk free. Hundreds of rape kits in the state of Massachusetts remain untested, the oldest dating back to the 1970s. Many factors could contribute to this statistic, including poor tracking of the kits, inefficiencies in the testing process, or insufficient funding. The aim of this project is to use an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based technology to develop a more efficient and affordable rape test testing kit for use by crime labs. Students in this project will learn about paper microfluidic devices, ELISA, and 3-D printing. Students will aid in developing the test strip by experimenting with different concentrations of antibodies to maximize efficacy. 

Project 10. Plant-Based Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Yanfen Li
In tissue engineering applications, scaffolds are necessary to provide structure and rigidity to the new tissue and guide cells toward desirable functions. Instead of artificially replicating the complexity of scaffolds in nature, it is possible to repurpose existing plant matter by removing the native cells (decellularization), leaving behind a natural scaffold for new cells to inhabit. This project aims to analyze the mechanical properties of several plant-based scaffolds to optimize the matching of scaffolds to future intended tissues. In this project, students will learn how to decellularize plants, how to perform cell culture, and how to conduct a variety of mechanical testing. Students will also learn how to translate their learning to develop an at-home learning kit that teaches high school and undergraduate students about tissue decellularization.

Project 11. Developing an Optical Imaging Approach for Characterizing the Tumor Aggression

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Zeinab Hajjarian
Breast carcinoma remains the second leading cause of cancer-related death among women. Tumor grade is an independent prognostic and predictive criterion for identifying candidates for neoadjuvant and targeted therapies. Together with other prognostic criteria, it also informs the disease stage. In the current clinical practice, grading malignant tumor cells is largely based on eyeballing the size distribution of cells and their nuclei in the stained slides of tissue through a semi-numeric scoring method by assessing tubule formation (scored 1 to 3), nuclear pleomorphism (i.e., having enlarged nuclei with wide size distribution scored 1-3), and presence of mitotic figures (scored 1-3). The primary objective of this project is to pioneer an optical imaging approach capable of quantitatively assessing tumor grade in freshly excised tissue in its native state. This innovative approach will address the urgent need for a new, more objective metric for tumor grade assessment. Moreover, it will significantly enhance our understanding of tumor aggressiveness and open new avenues for developing novel therapeutic strategies. Through this project, students will actively contribute to advancing optical instrumentation and delve into signal and image processing to quantify and precisely characterize the scattering size distribution in phantoms and biological tissues. They will also learn about tissue optics, ray tracing models, and machine learning and will be exposed to the histopathological analysis and clinical management of breast cancer. 

Project 12: Laser SpeckLe fIeld Microscopy (SLIM) for 3-dimensional Micro-mechanical Imaging of the Extra-Cellular Matrix (ECM)

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Zeinab Hajjarian
Excessive and irregular micro-mechanical remodeling of the ECM is implicated in a broad spectrum of pathologies, including cardiovascular disease, fibrotic disorders, and cancer, which together account for over 50% of deaths worldwide. Nevertheless, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms is severely limited as no imaging tools are currently available for micromechanical mapping of the ECM at length scales pertinent to cells. This project aims to develop and validate a laser SpeckLe fIeld Microrheology (SLIM) technology for micromechanical tissue mapping with high spatial resolution and long depth range. The proposed technology is based on measuring the time-varying speckle intensity fluctuations. A speckle is a grainy intensity pattern formed when a coherent laser beam is backscattered from tissue. Brownian displacements of scattering particles within the ECM dynamically modulate the speckle fluctuations. These fluctuations are intimately related to the viscoelastic properties of imaged tissue. In compliant regions, unrestricted Brownian displacements provoke rapidly fluctuating speckle spots, whereas, in rigid areas, restrained motions elicit limited intensity variations of speckle grains. The capability of SLIM for 3-dimensional, high-resolution, micromechanical imaging of the ECM will provide new insight and scientific knowledge regarding the micro-mechanical basis of pathogenesis at the onset of disease. It will also allow the testing of multiple hypotheses of high clinical impact about therapeutic targeting of the ECM and the downstream mechanical-transduction signaling pathways, which could likely prevent the pathogenesis at its source. During this project, students will be deeply engaged in the setup of the optical instrumentation and creating image reconstruction algorithms. Additionally, they will be involved in validating and benchmarking the performance parameters of the SLIM modality. This will be accomplished by characterizing hydrogel phantoms and biological tissues using the SLIM technique and well-established mechanical testing methods.

Project 1. Development of an In Vitro Loop for Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Zhenglun (Alan) Wei

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a common condition, and its prevalence is only expected to increase with the aging population. Management of tricuspid regurgitation relies on accurate assessment of the tricuspid valve orifice area, measured by Doppler echocardiography. However, more and more people doubt the accuracy of existing methods, and many researchers are continuously developing new quantitative assessment techniques for TR. Innovations in medical devices and technology, as well as in vivo measurement, must be rigorously tested in the lab, in animal models, and eventually in clinical trials before FDA approves them for general usage. The purpose of this project is to build an in vitro experimental facility that facilitates in vitro testing of innovative measurements of TR. Students' learning outcomes and activities: Understand existing methods and current limitations; understand the FDA approval process and regulation in innovative in vivo measurements; develop an experimental facility to host an excised porcine tricuspid valve in an acrylic housing; we will excise a tricuspid valve from a porcine heart and properly put it into an acrylic housing; with physiological pressure, the ex vivo porcine tricuspid valve should open and close properly; this device should also facilitate the creation of valve regurgitation.

Project 2. Quantify Hemodynamic Factors for Adverse Events in Patients with Single Ventricle Malformations

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Zhenglun (Alan) Wei

Single ventricle (SV) malformations are among the most complex and severe congenital heart defects (CHDs) and affect about 2 per 1000 births in the United States. The Fontan procedure is commonly used to palliate SV defects. This multi-stage procedure culminates in the formation of the total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC), which connects returning and pulmonary circulations in series, allowing oxygenation of returning blood without passing through the right side of the heart. It was found that hemodynamic and geometric characteristics of a patient’s TCPC are closely linked with the post-Fontan quality of life, lung development, Fontan-associated liver disease (FALD), and exercise capacity. Correspondingly, a Fontan treatment planning paradigm has been developed to assess patient-specific Fontan hemodynamics. This paradigm assists in improving the prognosis of post-Fontan complications and creating personalized treatment. However, scarce data are available on the relationship between TCPC characteristics (hemodynamics or anatomy) and significant adverse outcomes of Fontan patients (including death and need for transplant or a pacemaker). This lack of knowledge could result in suboptimal TCPC designs and delay necessary interventions, thereby negatively impacting these patients. We will examine the hypothesis that patient-specific TCPC hemodynamic and geometric characteristics correlate with Fontan patients’ adverse events by leveraging the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia-Georgia Tech-UMass Lowell (CHOP-GT-UML) Fontan database, which has 1500 Fontan patients. Students will reconstruct anatomy and segment flow data from magnetic resonance images. Then, they will conduct image-based CFD simulations to assess patient-specific TCPC hemodynamics. 

Project 3. Computational Strategies for Characterizing Sensory Neuron Phenotypes Based on Extracellular Electrophysiology

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Bryan Black

Students working on this project will help develop or validate computational tools for analyzing multi-parametric phenotypic data sets collected from hiPSC models of acute and inflammatory nociception. The overarching goal of this funded research is to develop and characterize a novel phenotypic model of acute and chronic nociception based on hiPSC sensory neurons cultured and differentiated on microelectrode arrays (MEAs). However, the currently proposed methods of analysis may not capture the complexity of the MEA data, or how it relates to biomolecular data sets. Therefore, there is a need in our lab and in the field of pain science and neuroscience research to develop or validate novel statistical approaches to extracellular electrophysiology data analysis (e.g., hierarchical clustering analysis) and correspond these outcomes with biomolecular assays. This project will provide students the opportunity to learn extracellular electrophysiology data collection, signal processing and filtering, Matlab coding, and statistical tools for multi-parametric analysis. 

Project 4. Behavioral, Biomolecular and Immunoarchitectural Characterization of Amputation Neuroma

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Bryan Black

In collaboration with clinicians at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA, students will help collect and analyze behavioral, secretomic, and immunoarchitectural data from animal models of traumatic inury/amputation pain. The overarching goal of this funded research is to better understand the histological and architectural features of traumatic/amputation neuroma – a benign peripheral nerve tumor which serves as a focal point for pain in many patients. To do so, we employ an established rodent model of amputation pain to develop symptomatic neuroma and characterize them. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to interact with clinicians and perform preliminary histochemical analysis from human neuroma samples. During this project, the students will learn clinical outcomes related to traumatic peripheral nerve injury and amputation, clinical strategies for intervention and/or pain management, as well as technical skills related to antibody staining and subsequent image analysis/quantification. The data processed in this project will inform preclinical and, subsequently, clinical/commercial strategies for traumatic neuroma intervention. 

Project 5. Developing Functional Biomaterials that Mimic Natural Tissues and Facilitate the Repair and Regeneration of Damaged Tissues

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Gulden Camci-Unal

The goal of this research project is to control and modulate cellular behavior for directing the repair and regeneration of tissues. Students will learn about using diverse tools from chemistry, cell biology, materials science, microfabrication, and engineering. Students will contribute to the development of multicellular and compartmentalized tissue mimetics for clinical applications, such as endothelialization of cardiovascular tissues, regeneration of bone, and invasion of tumors.

Project 6. Developing Point-of-Care Diagnostic Platforms for the Rapid Detection of Pathogenic Diseases, Health Conditions and Environmental Reagents

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Gulden Camci-Unal

The goal of this project is to develop in vitro disease models for personalized medicine and low-cost point-of-care diagnostics to solve problems in global health. An exemplary project is the development of rapid and simple tests for the detection of the Covid-19 virus from bodily fluids in only 5 minutes, contributing to improving global health outcomes. Students will learn about applying diverse tools from chemistry, cell biology, materials science, microfabrication, and engineering to develop devices and methods for personalized medicine and low-cost point-of-care diagnostics to solve problems in global health.

Project 7. Development of Respiratory Airway Models Based on CT/MRI Images

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Jinxiang Xi

In this project, the student will learn how to use an open-source segmentation software Slicer to process existing medical images and extract different organs.  Existing chest images will be used to extract the airway geometries, including the nose, oral cavity, pharynx, and lung.  Both image-based patient-specific lungs and morphology-generating algorithms have been developed with increasing levels of complexity and physical realism.  Particularly, with access to high-quality chest CT scans, patient-specific lung models can be built up to 10 generations.  These airway models can be further used for numerical simulations and in vitro aerosol testing.  Through this project, the students will master the workflow and major functions of the software Slicer, which has been widely used in the medical community. 

Project 8. 3D Printing of Solid and Hollow Airway Models

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Jinxiang Xi

This project will consist of two stages: (1) hollow airway model preparation and (2) airway replica cast manufacturing.  The solid airway models that were prepared in Project 1 will be further processed using the computer-aided software SolidWorks to generate hollow airway computer models. Varying wall thicknesses can be implemented in hollow casts.  In the second stage, the models of the upper airway geometries will be fabricated using the Stratasys Dimension 1200es, and those of the lung models will be fabricated using the Stratasys Object30 Pro 3D printer.  The support material SCA-1200 for the Object30 Pro 3D printer can be dissolved in a water-based solution, which makes it ideal for fabricating intricate, hollow models such as the human respiratory tract.  A key advantage of the rapid prototyping capacity is to quickly translate image-based respiratory anatomy into in vitro models.  Such models can be implemented for flow and aerosol experimentations.  Using different printing materials, students will gain a better understanding of the 3-D printing principles, as well as the effect of model surface properties on respiratory airflows and inhalation dosimetry. 

Project 9. Development of a Motion Platform for a VR Wheelchair Training Environment

Prof. Faculty Mentor: Prof. Kelilah Wolkowicz

We are working on developing a VR-based wheelchair training simulator to help prospective wheelchairs users feel more comfortable as they learn to use a powered wheelchair. One challenge with working in VR is VR-sickness because VR users are often stationary as their VR world moves around them. To help mitigate VR-sickness, we are looking for students interested in building a motion platform for users to sit on while using the VR simulator; the platform will rotate as the virtual wheelchair rotates and we would also like to incorporate haptic feedback to make collisions more realistic. Throughout this project, students will learn about the engineering design process, as well as how to do some simple sensor and actuator development to move the motion platform based on simulated wheelchair movement.

Project 10. Design and Development of a Robotic Arm for Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Prediction

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Kelilah Wolkowicz

We are also working on designing and building a robotic arm for a special application in pediatric TBI. We are collaborating with researchers in Psychology that have developed a VR game to help predict pediatric TBI; however, the VR headset is too heavy for pediatric users with TBI to wear on their heads. Instead, we would design and build a robotic arm that can hold the VR headset directly in front of the user's face. Students will learn about the engineering design process while also learning to work with robotic systems that can be controlled either through manual joystick control or using facial recognition sensors.

Project 11. Development of Tissue Micro-Sampling Devices for Assembling Skin Constructs for Regenerating Skin

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Walfre Franco

More than half of all hospital deaths are caused by sepsis, and patients who die of sepsis succumb to the ensuing multiorgan failure. As oxygen utilization in a cell becomes deficient, changes in mitochondrial redox state precede changes in cellular, tissue, and organ function. Mitochondrial damage occurs during sepsis, such as the impairment of oxygen extraction and utilization, and the severity of mitochondrial dysfunction has been shown to correlate with increased patient mortality. Therefore, a major need exists for methods to evaluate mitochondrial utilization of oxygen continuously. This project focuses on developing optical, acoustic, and machine-learning systems and methods for continuous noninvasive monitoring and real-time analysis of cellular oxygen utilization. Students will help develop computer algorithms and photoacoustic methods for quantifying and analyzing variations in the optical environment of tissues. Students will learn about computational modeling, machine learning, and how light is used to measure tissue oxygenation and could be used to measure oxygen consumption. 

Project 12. Characterization of the Flow-Induced Mechanical Forces that Modulate Ovarian Cancer

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Walfre Franco

Within the ovarian tumor microenvironment, flow-induced mechanical stimuli are a poorly understood factor that plays a crucial role in facilitating dismay clinical outcomes. The goal of this project is to study the hydrodynamic forces that modulate ovarian cancer biology in a chip perfusion model for 3D tumor microenvironment growth. Students' activities include building microfluidic chips, imaging particle tracers, and inputting experimental measurements to existing computational models to characterize forces around tumor nodules. Students will learn about microfluidic chip fabrication, particle image velocimetry, computer fluid dynamics, and mechanotransduction.

Project 13. Developing Microfluidic Diagnostic Devices for Crime Labs

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Yanfen Li

According to RAINN statistics, out of every 1000 sexual assaults, 995 perpetrators will walk free. Hundreds of rape kits in the state of Massachusetts remain untested, the oldest dating back to the 1970s. Many factors could contribute to this statistic, including poor tracking of the kits, inefficiencies in the testing process, or insufficient funding. The aim of this project is to use an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based technology to develop a more efficient and affordable rape test testing kit for use by crime labs. Students in this project will learn about paper microfluidic devices, ELISA, and 3-D printing. Students will aid in the development of the test strip by experimenting with different concentrations of antibodies in order to maximize efficacy. 

Project 14. Plant-Based Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Yanfen Li

In tissue engineering applications, scaffolds are necessary to provide structure and rigidity to the new tissue, along with guiding cells toward desirable functions. Instead of artificially replicating the complexity of scaffolds in nature, it is possible to repurpose existing plant matter by removing the native cells (decellularization), leaving behind a natural scaffold for new cells to inhabit. The purpose of this project is to analyze the mechanical properties of several plant-based scaffolds to optimize the matching of scaffolds to future intended tissues. In this project, students will learn how to decellularize plants, how to perform cell culture, and how to conduct a variety of mechanical testing. Students will also learn how to translate their learning to develop an at-home learning kit that teaches high school and undergraduate students about tissue decellularization.

How to Apply

Apply by Feb. 14, 2026 and be sure to fulfill all application requirements.