Research & Projects

Summary Can AI help us build toward a goal in a field we barely know? AidDrop follows two biology students creating an automated pipetting machine.

Role Principal Investigator. Designed the overall structure and pipetting module, and developed the machine-control software.

Methods Vibe coding, 3D printing, and SolidWorks-based 3D modeling.

Outcome A prototype pipetting machine with a complete control system.

Summary My first iGEM project as a supervisor. The team explored a hagfish-inspired protein hydrogel for spacesuit repair.

Role Team Advisor. Researched molecular docking and AlphaFold, led a molecular docking workshop, and shared practical experience in laboratory work, team management, hardware design, wiki writing, and project presentation.

Methods Polyhistidine tagging, Gibson Assembly, and nickel-column chromatography.

Outcome The team earned a Gold Medal and nominations for Best Hardware and Best Project.

Summary An attempt to create a laboratory instrument from 0 to 1.

Role 3D Parts Designer. Designed and optimized the pedestal, frame, and stabilization structure; created the portfolio and helped compile a paper for innovation competitions.

Methods SolidWorks 2023 CAD, 3D printing, and the Design-Build-Test-Learn cycle.

Outcome Built a $72 instrument that achieved a 90% cell-survival rate, while developing foundational 3D design skills.

Summary My first iGEM project. We produced L-theanine with engineered E. coli and designed theanine candy with a 3D-printed package as a downstream product.

Role Laboratory Working Group Leader. Led experimental design, contributed throughout the workflow, supported teammates, co-designed the candy and its 3D-printed box, and wrote the Hardware and Engineering Success wiki sections.

Methods Plasmid and primer design, Golden Gate Assembly, E. coli engineering and fermentation, and HPLC verification.

Outcome Developed foundational research, laboratory, and laboratory-management skills, including PCR, plasmid transformation, DNA and SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, and IPTG-induced expression.