As a graduate research assistant at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, I am pursuing a PhD in bioengineering with a focus on microRNA detection using optical biosensors. My research aims to develop novel point of care diagnostics for various biomarkers, and to improve the sensitivity, specificity, and reliability of biosensors for healthcare applications. I have also gained experience teaching engineering prototyping to high school students, and I am passionate about engineering outreach and education. I am motivated by the potential of bioengineering to address global health challenges.