Each year, Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering asks our students engaged in summer research to tell us about themselves, their work and the goals of the research they are working with professors on. This year, the questionnaire was completed by intrepid scientists, mathematicians, engineers and tech experts on campus at Loyola Marymount University — and beyond the bluff!
Amelia Palacios, Computer Engineering student, worked with professor Xiangyi Cheng Developing a low-cost, noninvasive device to measure skin elasticity, aiding surgeons in planning syndactyly surgeries.
Can you describe your research for those outside your field of study?
My undergraduate research project focuses on developing a cost effective, non invasive device to measure skin elasticity for plastic surgery applications, specifically for Syndactyly, a condition where fingers or toes are fused. The goal is to create a quantitative measurement tool that could assist surgeons in assessing skin properties and to determine how much skin is needed from certain areas to be used in surgery.
What do you think readers will find most interesting about your project?
Many can learn how engineering and medicine can come together to solve practical, human centered problems. Anyone can be interested in this project because it aims to improve the process of measuring skin for the procedure. My device could help make surgeries safer and more precise, which is valuable to anyone concerned with health and well being. Beyond the Syndactyly procedure, the idea of measuring skin properties could inspire advances in other areas, like wound care, dermatology, or even wearable technology.
What have you learned about doing research that other students might benefit from?
Personally, I learned how to push through technical challenges and effectively communicate with my peers and professor. I’ve also improved practical engineering skills beyond classroom such as enhancing CAD skills and learning to be more efficient in my time management and documentation skills. While working on this project, I’ve received networking opportunities with professors and other students in SURP. This research has given me another perspective and hands on experience of the biomedical engineering field.
What advice would you give to someone on the fence about doing research?
Just go for it! You don’t need to be an expert to start, you’ll learn along the way. Always reach out to professors. I was able to start my project by emailing one of my professors. Doing research builds real-world skills, helps you discover passions, and can lead to unexpected opportunities in your career. Even if things don’t go perfectly, you’ll grow and benefit from the experience. You’ll learn something new everyday, potentially find a new path you’ll love, and maybe meet new friends along the way. You’ll never know unless you try!