2023 Convergence Grant Recipients
We are thrilled to announce our 2022-2023 convergence grant recipients! This exciting department initiative aims to support doctoral research by awarding six students this grant to supplement their research supply costs and conference travel. These grants provide a valuable opportunity for our students to pursue their research goals and make important contributions to their fields of study.
Bhuvana Lakkasetter Chandrashekar
Fourth-year Ph.D. student in Dr. Danieli Rodrigues’ Biomaterials for Osseointegration and Novel Engineering (BONE) Lab at The University of Texas at Dallas, is a two-time recipient of the convergence grant for her groundbreaking research on dental cements.
Third-year Ph.D. candidate in the Obaid Lab for Molecular Imaging and Optical Nanotherapeutics, is a recipient of the Convergence grant.
Third-year Ph.D. candidate in Dr. Heather Hayenga’s Vascular Mechanobiology Lab, is a recipient of the Convergence grant. Jeremy is focused on developing computational models of a disease called atherosclerosis. The lab uses a trifecta of biological, mechanical, and fluid models to study the interactions of cells and their environments and better understand how the disease progresses with time.
Third-year Ph.D. student working in Jones Laboratory for Immunoengineering and Therapeutics, is a recipient of the convergence grant.
Fifth-year Ph.D. student working in the Biomedical Microdevices and Nanotechnology Lab, is currently engaged in developing an innovative electrochemical biosensor platform that enables rapid diagnosis and timely management of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) for both at-home and near-patient use. UTI is a common bacterial infection that affects millions of people worldwide, with women being more vulnerable to it than men. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications, such as kidney damage, sepsis, and even mortality.
Fourth-year Ph.D. student in Sirsi Lab, is working on a cutting-edge project involving a three-dimensional focused ultrasound system to improve drug delivery. His research has significant implications for treating various diseases, including cancer. Focused ultrasound (FUS) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that uses ultrasound waves to heat and destroy targeted tissues.