Team

Assistant Professor

Department of Materials Science and Engineering

Institute for Medical Engineering and Science

First year – Graduate Student

Materials Science and Engineering & PPSM

Stella is a graduate student interested in exploring how biochemistry and polymer science can be integrated to design immunomodulatory materials. She joined the IMBM lab in Fall 2025, where she is focused on developing extracellular matrix–mimicking peptide hydrogels. She previously earned her B.S. in Chemistry (Biological Chemistry track) with a minor in Biomedical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, where she designed a polypeptide adsorbent for emergency overdose treatment. Outside the lab, she enjoys swimming, trying new restaurants, and salsa dancing.

UROP

Biological Engineering – 2027

Jessica is an undergraduate student interested in the intersection of biomaterials, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. She joined the lab in Fall 2025 and currently studies how peptide hydrogel stereochemistry can be harnessed to modulate immune responses. Outside of the lab, she enjoys trying new coffee shops, painting, and traveling with friends!

UROP

Materials Science and Engineering – 2027

Emily is an undergraduate student interested in applying materials science principles to the development of biomaterials that advance medical tools and technologies. She joined the lab in Fall 2025 and is currently studying peptide-based hydrogels, exploring how their mechanical properties influence the immune response they elicit. When she is not in the lab, she enjoys listening to music and doing crafts with friends, going out on walks, and trying new desserts!

UROP

– 2029

Mominatou is a first-year undergraduate student interested in chemistry, physics, and math and the application of those subjects to medicine. She joined the lab in Fall 2025, and her project is on self-assembling peptide hydrogels and their potential to kill cancer(s). Besides STEM, she loves exploring the city, learning about different cultures and languages, and reading and listening to podcasts.

Head of Pawsitivity (not always)

Luna is a sweet rescue pup who’s traded street smarts for lab life. She loves cuddles, snacks, and chasing her favorite remote-control car. It might take her a while to warm up to new friends, but a treat (or ten) usually does the trick. Most days, you’ll find her happily curled up next to Tania, keeping her company while she works.

We’re actively recruiting team members at all levels across a range of disciplines, including materials science, biomaterials, bioengineering, peptide chemistry, glycoscience, immunology, microbiology, and cancer research. If you’re interested in joining a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, we’d love to hear from you!