Christine worked at the Nanobioengineering lab led by Dr. Chenzhong Li to explore various methods related to culturing and characterizing cardiomyocytes (heart cells). While at FIU, she was mentored by Maedeh Mozneb and learned about a wide variety of bioengineering techniques, such as cell culture, electrochemistry, and surface plasmon resonance. She also collaborated with lab team members on future publications.
More about My Experience
Christine’s interests in both nursing and bioengineering work to address emergent health care needs inspired Smothers to join the CELL-MET REU.
Summer 2018, Smothers worked with the Nanobioengineering lab led by Dr. Chenzhong Li to explore various methods related to culturing and characterizing cardiomyocytes (heart cells). While at FIU, in addition to learning about a wide variety of bioengineering techniques, she also strengthened her science writing abilities through collaborating with lab team members on future publications.
This was the first time Smothers had visited Miami, and she loved adventuring with her roommate (and fellow CELL MET participant) Melody Siles! Together they visited iconic sites such as Ocean Drive, Wynwood Walls, and Bayside, and of course enjoyed the great food.
After completing her research experience, Christine graduated with a BS in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University. She also earned a PhD in Nursing from Case Western. She hopes to use this training to research and develop engineered solutions for nursing needs.
