Matthew Eastman , IT 2008
Developing Micro-Pumps for a Micro-Fluidic System
Major
Biomedical Engineering
Mentor
Victor Barocas and Paul Hattan , Biomedical Engineering
Brief Bio
I enjoy watching movies as well as making them and staying up late with my roommates. I also like to play intramural hockey and soccer with my BMEn buddies.
Future Plans
I plan on graduating, and then getting into the workforce. Then get a masters degree in biomedical engineering or mechanical engineering.
Why Research?
I wanted to get some research experience that would build skills for something I wanted to do later. By doing research, I would develop the skills I need for future research.
What Did I Get from Research?
I learned a how to set up your own process of experimental testing as well as how to be precise and methodical. I learned many fine tuning skills as well as trouble shooting with experimental methods.
How Did I Start?
I took a biomechanics class with my mentor, and he mentioned he did a little research. He then mentioned he was looking for some people to help him do research. I went online and got some information, and applied for the job.
My Advice for Another Student:
If you get an opportunity, take it. It is very helpful.
Research Summary
I am developing small pumps, which will be used in a device that will help to find out protein crystaline structures. The pumps are mechanically designed. They are durable, and very cheap to make. The entire device is a microsystem built of small channels which helps to make the system cost effective. I tested the pumps for how much fluid they were able to pump.