Undergraduate Research: CAST

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 14:44:16 -0400
internship, research, student-highlight, summer-2023, ug, ugrad

Terra Miley,
'25 Chemical Engineering - biotechnology & bioengineering track, Minor: Entrepreneurship

When did you do your Research?

Center for Advanced Sensor Technology with Dr. Govind Rao at UMBC

What is the focus of your Research?

The focus of my research is fluorescent sensor technology and developing genetically encoded sensors to be used in Cell-Free Bioreactors.

What do you enjoy the most about your Research?

I am surrounded by extremely intelligent engineers and researchers from whom I have the privilege to learn so much from. I am specifically looking forward to working with my mentors, Chad Sundberg Ph.D. student and Dr. Govind Rao, to become a better researcher as well as advancing in my project.

What was the best part of your Research OR What was the biggest learning moment of your Research ?

The best part of my research experience are the small wins and discoveries that are made in the lab each and everyday. Through working with others, it is amazing to see what can happen when multiple different people approach a problem. I have been able to apply what I learn in my classes to my research project. I have been able to learn so much from others, and I look forward to continuing to learn and apply our research to solve real-world problems.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in getting involved in research or an internship?

My advice is to not hesitate to reach out to research labs or internships that you are interested in. Reach out early and do research ahead of time to learn about the research done in the lab.

Are you a member of any clubs/campus organizations?

I am the Secretary and Communications Conference Chair for the American Institute of Chemical Engineers as well as the Panhellenic Delegate and Historian for Phi Mu, Phi Gamma Chapter. I was also a teaching fellow for ENCH 215, Chemical Engineering Analysis, during the summer.

What are your goals after graduation?

After graduation I plan to continue my education in graduate school, to hopefully pursue my Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering.

Learn more about Terra Miley: