Spatial biology is part of the next generation of genomics sequencing - Vizgen aims to utilize Multiplexed Error-Robust Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (MERFISH), a quantitative and genome-scale imaging technique for identifying and mapping nucleic acids at multiple length scales, for a diverse array of tissue types.

The development of three-dimensional bioprinting techniques on micro-/nano-scales stands to greatly aid in solving the technological and translational issues associated with tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The Chen Lab is interested in developing the novel materials and technologies necessary to both investigate fundamental biological interactions with microenvironments as well as further enhance tissue engineering capabilities:[+] Integrated 3D-bioprinting and microfluidics for microphysiological systems and tissue engineering applications:• Conducted biological and microfluidic experiments for analyzing 3D-printed human microphysiological systems.• Developed and fabricated complex 3D biological scaffolds and co-culturing with multiple human cell types.• Prototyped custom manifolds and microfluidic devices via 3D printing and CNC machining.• Leveraged 3D-bioprinter capabilities across synthetic, bio-derived printable hydrogels, and mammalian cell lines.• Developed custom hardware and processes for enhanced multi-material 3D bioprinting. • Tested hardware, software, and workflow technique modifications to improve 3D bioprinting capabilities.• Conducting the troubleshooting, repairing, and upgrading of equipment, e.g. 3D-printers, mechanical testers, microscopes, etc.[+] Managed, trained, and mentored lab members (fellow PhDs, postdocs, undergraduates, and high school trainees) on laboratory practices, experimental design, troubleshooting, and fabrication processes.[+] Co-authored 3+ research funding proposals; 4+ peer-reviewed publications.

Illumina's mission is to improve human health by unlocking the power of the genome. [+] Conducted research into microfluidic techniques for improving Illumina’s DNA-sequencing technology:• Developed and characterized flushing methods for efficient cleaning of consumable microfluidic flow cells.• Identified bottlenecks and resolved errors in systems integration workflow for next-gen DNA sequencing platform.• Designed protocols to minimize experimental variability, improve data collection, and streamline workflow.• Collaborated and cross-trained with the Consumables and Advanced Technology Development departments to assist in development-to-manufacturing pipeline.• Presented successful internship results during company poster presentation, as well as final conclusions to high-level members in preparation for continuing projects.

Rare circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are often present in the bloodstream of those with metastatic cancer, and analyzing these CTCs is useful for clinical diagnostic purposes. We are interested in capturing these CTCs via microfluidics technologies in an antigen-free manner that will supplant current industry standards in CTC capture. [+] Conducted research into microfluidic methods for capturing rare circulating tumor cells from whole blood:• Designed and rapid-prototyped microfluidic structures to improve sample processing throughput and specificity. • Conducted critical experiments using fabricated microfluidic devices to optimize reagent, operational, and usability requirements for external clinical users. • Trained users from corporate sponsor Johnson&Johnson on technology design, installation, and usage. [+] Ensured good laboratory practices and safety as Safety Manager; maintained mechanical equipment, quality of biological reagents, and health of fellow colleagues.[+] Performed phlebotomy, acquiring healthy-donor blood for experiments; over 90% successful draw rate.[+] Managed supply chain and purchasing duties for 20+ employees.

• Selected to jointly oversee approximately sixty students for introductory biomedical engineering course.• Conducted office hours, computational tutorials, and labs covering such topics as DNA electrophoresis, microfluidic fabrication/operation, mammalian cell culturing techniques and cell cytotoxicity testing.

Detailed, working knowledge of biological structural development during morphogenesis can provide understanding of disease paradigms that can affect those structures. We were interested in studying cardiac developmental morphogenesis in avian embryos via micro-computerized tomography, to better facilitate cardiac regenerative treatment strategies. [+] Conducted research into optimal nanoparticle colloid contrast media for optically-gated in vivo cardiac monitoring of avian embryos via micro-computerized tomography:• Performed synthesis, optimization, and characterization of gold nanoparticle colloids. • Tested nanoparticle cytotoxicity, computerized tomography-based contrast enhancement factors, and injection methodology with avian embryonic cultures.

Optical imaging of biological tissues is complicated by factors such as tissue depth, laser interaction with tissues, and camera sensitivity. Injectable contrast agents can ease imaging constraints, but must be biocompatible, easily synthesized, and be specific to tissues of interest. Our group was interested in providing novel substances that can satisfy these criteria. [+] Conducted research into biomedical sensing and in vivo cancer ablation techniques for bioconjugated metallic nanoparticle colloids, utilizing Raman amplification and Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS):• Synthesized gold and/or silver single-core, dual-core, and core-shell nanoparticle colloids with various geometries and bioconjugated stabilizers. • Optimized nanoparticle size, geometry, pH-stability, and magnitude of SERS enhancement factor.

Worked with fellow council members to provide overarching leadership to resident advisors campus-wide, and facilitated in converting resident advisors’ needs into policy. Provided paraprofessional advising for fifty-student communities, and coordinated with a staff of seventeen people to enforce university policies for a 900-student quad.