Explored commercialization strategy for the point-of-care diagnostic tests developed by the Yager Laboratory at the University of Washington. Analyzed potential markets, target indications and customer needs; conducted expert and customer interviews; shared findings with research team and technology licensing team to guide next steps for the technology.

My thesis work contributed to a multi-organization research effort to develop highly sensitive, inexpensive, rapid, and easy to use point-of-care diagnostic tests. Specifically, I designed methods for improved control of reagent and fluidic handling in lateral flow diagnostic tests to increase sensitivity vs. traditional lateral flow tests, and I built computational models in Comsol Multiphysics simulating fluid flow and reagent rehydration to better design novel device architectures.Specific achievements and roles:• Developed and patented novel methods for dry reagent storage and dissolution on paper substrates.• Communicated findings and results with many collaborators including: GE Global Research, PATH, Childrens’ Hospital Seattle, as well as UW researchers• Directly mentored 3 undergraduates and 1 high school student• 1 PCT application (PCT/US2012/044060); 3 first-author publications; several conference proceedings• Completed Technology Entrepreneurship Certificate through the UW Foster School of Business • 2nd Place and Best Innovation Prize in UW Business Plan Competition with Flu FinderDissertation title: "Methods and models to control and predict the behavior of two-dimensional paper networks for diagnostics"

Visited 13 medical facilities, ranging from regional hospitals to remote clinics without electricity, across 3 regions of Peru: mountains, desert, and jungle. Interacted directly with the medical staff at clinics to gain perspective on unmet needs, explored current projects and objectives in the diagnostic field with technology developers and funders. Discussed improved business and implementation models for point-of-care diagnostics in developing countries As a conference reporter, I visited all sites and participated in all aspects of the event, recording observations and participants' comments, and was a co-author on the official conference report, submitted to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, as well as a peer-reviewed publication.