Why did you choose to study at WPI?  

I learned how much I loved medical device research after working in the veterinary science field as a result of my undergraduate studies. After completing my graduate degree at Brown University while working full time as a preclinical surgeon and scientist, I was motivated to pursue a doctoral degree at a highly reputable institution. Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s experiential PhD program provided an ideal opportunity to continue my professional work while leveraging and expanding my practical experience. This program has given me access to a variety of professors within the biomedical engineering field and has been a great fit for me to grow even further in the industry. 

Do you have a faculty or staff mentor?  

Dr. George Pins. He is my advisor and someone who believed I was a good fit for the industrial PhD program. He has guided me through the process while supporting and understanding my commitments in life. 

What projects are you working on?  

I am working on preparing for my qualifying exam proposal and defending it later this year. The research topic is about a self-fixating mesh for hernia repair surgery. 

How has the experiential program at WPI supported your professional growth in the industry and how have you integrated your professional work with your doctoral research? 

The experiential program at WPI has significantly supported my professional growth throughout my 26 years in the medical device industry. I consistently integrate the knowledge gained through my coursework with my extensive professional experience to inform and strengthen the research I support on a daily basis. As a result, I have developed a deeper understanding of material properties and their applications, and I intentionally apply this advanced, real‑world knowledge to my work in industry. I highly value the opportunity to translate practical, industry‑based experience into my doctoral studies, strengthening both my professional practice and my progress toward my eventual doctoral degree.  This is unique to a small set of schools in the USA and WPI is one that is set apart from the rest. 

What’s your favorite thing about WPI?  

The access to such knowledgeable professors who expand my exposure and perspective in the field.