Senior Graduate Research Assistant
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States
Katherine is a Panamanian graduate student currently pursuing a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering and a graduate entrepreneurial certificate at the University of Arkansas. Since 2019, she has been conducting research in the Polymeric Biomaterials Lab of Dr. Jorge Almodovar at the Engineering Research Center (ENRC). Katherine earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biomedical engineering from the University of Arkansas in May 2021 and December 2022, respectively. Her research resulted in co-authorship of two publications and a patent for this innovative microneedle patch technology. As a Ph.D. candidate, Katherine leads a half-million-dollar project focused on optimizing drug release of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) through microneedle patches for veterinary applications.
In addition to her research endeavors, Katherine was awarded the Kaneaster and Ruth Lindley Hodges Entrepreneurial Fellowship, empowering her to leverage her research expertise for societal benefit and enhance her career prospects. She has also been selected for the NSF I-Corps Program and STEP (STEAM Training in Entrepreneurial Practices) hosted by the University of Arkansas in summer 2023, where she is learning lean startup methods for bringing microneedle patch technology to the marketplace. Katherine recognizes the entrepreneurial significance of this technology, with its potential to revolutionize drug delivery, improve patient outcomes, and create diverse opportunities across medical, cosmetic, and research sectors.
As a Panamanian/Latina woman in science, engineering, and entrepreneurship, Katherine serves as the Community and Student Engagement Fellow of the Biomedical Engineering (BMEG) department at the University of Arkansas. This role allows her to cultivate an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and embraces all voices. Katherine actively participates in national conferences, where she presents her research findings and engages in stimulating discussions. She also completed an internship at Winrock International as a Venture Commercialization Fellow, gaining valuable insights into the practical applications of her scientific knowledge and entrepreneurship skills.
Katherine is a proud member of the EMPOWER cohort Women in STEM, where she actively engages in entrepreneurial pursuits alongside her academic endeavors. This program provides her with invaluable mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources to further her entrepreneurship journey and make meaningful contributions to her field.
Her journey as an international Latina woman in science, engineering, and entrepreneurship has equipped her with a diverse array of experiences, which she shares through workshops, collaborative projects, and mentoring opportunities. Katherine emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in innovation, problem-solving, and decision-making. She recognizes that combining scientific expertise with entrepreneurial skills can significantly enhance professional prospects and open doors to various opportunities in engineering and technology fields.
Katherine is a dedicated leader in fostering inclusion and diversity in biomedical engineering and beyond. Her effective collaboration, leadership, mentoring, and teamwork skills make her an inspirational figure and an invaluable asset to the academic and professional community.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Katherine is actively involved in various academic and social organizations. She is a proud member of Sigma Xi, the international honor society of science and engineering, and Tau Beta Pi, the engineering honor society. During her undergraduate years, Katherine contributed to fostering sisterhood and service as an active member of Gamma Eta Sorority, Inc., and honed her leadership skills in The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS).
As she continues her academic and professional journey, Katherine has expanded her involvement to include membership in prestigious organizations such as SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science), BMES (Biomedical Engineering Society), and AIChE (American Institute of Chemical Engineers). Through her active participation in these societies, Katherine exemplifies her dedication to personal and professional growth, leadership, and service.
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Thursday, October 24, 2024
8:45 AM – 9:00 AM EST