Point-of-care diagnostic tools for early detection of chronic diseases (RET)
Mentors
Graduate student mentor: Maya Bartels
Project Description
We are excited to host an RET educator this summer to learn about laboratory biomedical engineering research and engage with a multidisciplinary team. Our lab develops enabling biotechnologies to measure and control spatiotemporal enzyme activities in complex biological systems, from cells and tissues to whole organisms. Positioned at the intersection of precision engineering and health, our work aims to address critical challenges in precision medicine, including earlier detection, more timely interventions, and expanding access in low-resource settings. The RET educator will work with our technological pipeline to develop point-of-care diagnostic tools for early detection of cancer and other chronic diseases. We will tailor the summer experience to the educator’s interests and professional goals, designing hands-on activities that build content knowledge, laboratory skills, and classroom-ready materials. The program will emphasize translating research concepts into practical lessons and demonstrations that can be implemented in K–12 or college classrooms to inspire the next generation of STEM learners.