"Outstanding Research Contributions" internationally recognized at Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering Conference

Starting off in early January this year, I had the incredible opportunity of attending the international Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering (CMBE) 2025 Conference in Carlsbad, California. This annual conference brings together scientists, engineers, professors and industry professionals from across the world to discuss and recognize the latest research, progress and breakthroughs in the field. This experience was not only inspiring, educational and enriching, but deeply rewarding. 

I’m incredibly honored to have been the only presenter to receive both the CMBE Poster Award and the People’s Choice / Advanced NanoBiomed Research Best Poster Award, sponsored by the prestigious Advanced Portfolio of scientific journals. Having started research in Grade 10 and as a scientist early in my research career, I couldn’t be more grateful for this recognition among such a remarkable international community of established scientists and trainees. 

My research, conducted under the incredible mentorship of Dr. Ngan Huang at the Stanford University School of Medicine and Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Medical Centre, explores how biomechanical forces influence cellular behavior in atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries)–an area that lies at the intersection of engineering, biology, and translational medicine. Being able to share this work with a specialized community and see it resonate so strongly was an unforgettable experience. To have it recognized both by the judges and fellow attendees through the People’s Choice vote was truly humbling. 

Beyond the awards, what made this conference so impactful was the incredible environment it fostered. I had the chance to connect with leading experts and pioneers in the field, engage in meaningful scientific discussions, and build relationships with fellow researchers approaching different cellular and molecular bioengineering applications in various unique ways. The energy in every session was palpable, from keynote lectures on tissue mechanics and regenerative strategies to informal conversations that sparked new ideas and perspectives.  

I was especially inspired by the spirit of collaboration and curiosity that permeated the entire event. The conference served as a powerful reminder of why I’m drawn to this field: not only the fascinating science/engineering itself, but the shared commitment to innovation that improves human health. 

From molecular tools and biofabrication to cellular reprogramming and disease modeling, seeing the breadth of cutting-edge research being presented expanded my perspective and views of what’s possible. It was a privilege to be among such passionate researchers, all contributing to a shared goal of pushing the boundaries of biomedical discovery. 

A heartfelt thank you goes to the BMES CMBE organizers for curating such a thoughtful and high-caliber conference, and to Dr. Huang for her unwavering support and mentorship throughout this journey. I’m also grateful to everyone who stopped by my poster, engaged in conversation, or voted–your encouragement meant the world. A huge thank you as well to the Scholars Academy for supporting this trip. 

This experience has only deepened my excitement for what lies ahead in my research journey. To be recognized on this stage is not just a personal milestone, it’s a motivating reminder of the impact that innovative, interdisciplinary science can have. I’m so excited to not only see, but contribute, to where these paradigm-shifting innovations can take us.