Complex Biosystems PhD student, Kimberly M Stanke, was one of a handful chosen for the 2018-2019 Milton E. Mohr fellowship based on her academic performance and potential for accomplishments in biomedical engineering.
Stanke, studying Pathobiology and Biomedical Science, focuses on engineering novel biomaterials for neural and stem cell tissue engineering. Under the direction of Dr. Sri Kidambi, she conducts research in the Fabrication of Organoid and Complex μ (micro/nano)-scale biomimetic Surfaces Laboratory (FOCμS) Lab.
“I focus on developing patterned co-cultures of glioblastoma/astrocytes and neurons/astrocytes to better understand the mechanistic aspects of neurodegenerative diseases. I further analyze metabolic changes which occur during these neurodegerative diseases,” she explains.
Building on her training as a researcher to develop applied solutions to real-world problems in biomedical engineering, she hopes to develop low-cost diagnostic equipment for developing nations that can be read and understood without extensive training. Her goal is to become a biomedical engineer and develop tools and protocols to assist physicians world-wide in diagnosing disease.
Stanke credits her training as PhD student to an interdisciplinary field that combines mathematics, biology and engineering. The combination has facilitated her ability to identify underlying molecular mechanisms to specify biological makers important in disease progression, develop repeatable tests with discernable results and accurately determine an optimized cost formula.
“My PhD training has catalyzed my passion for the extension and protection of human health. I am truly excited to enter this dynamic field of biomedical engineering.”
Stanke received her B.S. in Mathematics with a specialization in Applied and Computational Mathematics with an additional major in Biomedical Engineering from Michigan Technological University.
The Milton E. Mohr awards program established in 1989, recognizes students in the College of Engineering and Biotechnology programs through an endowment to the University of Nebraska Foundation.