Thomas Rudibaugh, Ph.D. Email & Phone Number

Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

Advisor: Dr. Albert Keung- Engineered a novel cell culture model for studying addiction by differentiating human stem cells into the relevant subset of neurons in 3-D. - Established novel immunohistochemistry image processing tool that reduced image analysis time by 40% using ImageJ. Used tool to quantify expression of neural subtypes in our cell culture model. - Discovered new neurological responses to cocaine and morphine that contribute to addiction formation using Seurat and RStudio. Findings represent new targets for developing therapeutic treatments for addiction.- Demonstrated prenatal cocaine exposure causes oxidative stress in cerebral organoid model using CLC Genomics workbench. Results were validated results using fluorescence plate reader assay. - Evaluated the real time electrical response of neurons to dopamine using live cell fluorescence microscopy.- Generated red fluorescent cell line in H1 human embryonic stem cells using lentiviral transduction. Used fluorescent cell line to model neuron migration across organoids.- Functionally measured and modulated neural electrical activity using a modified ultrasound device in collaboration with the ECE department. Results were presented to DARPA leading to a further extension in funding. - Collaborated with the ECE department to perform proof of concept experiments embedding carbon sensors in organoids. Results led to a federally funded grant worth $350,000 between our lab and Dr. Bandodkar’s lab.

Advisor: Dr. Carlos Castro- Designed novel DNAorigami nanostructure with increased thermodynamic stability to assist with drug delivery in humans.- Quantified DNA nanostructure actuation in a magnetic field using confocal microscopy.

Spent 8 months as a process engineering co-op at Glatfelter paper mill.- Reduced optical brightening agent (OBA) usage by 33% by demonstrating efficacy of new OBA product resulting in $40,000/year in savings.- Performed initial lab testing on a new titanium dioxide compound. Results demonstrated possible efficacy leading to full trials in the plant with potential savings of $500,000/year.

Worked for three months as an intern within Lubrizol.- Designed SOP for simulating repeated wash cycles using tergotometer wash device. Used SOP to conclude a new chemical additive reduced color retention in laundry detergent, leading to its removal.

Doctor Of Philosophy - Phd, Chemical And Biomolecular Engineering

Master'S Degree, Chemical And Biomolecular Engineering, 3.7

Bachelor'S Degree, Chemical And Biomolecular Engineering, 3.5

Activities and Societies: Member of 12 person research team competing in the annual Biomod Biomolecular Design Competition. Team finished.