Summer Research Testimonials

Many BIOE students have participated in summer research experiences over the past few years. Continue reading to learn about their amazing experiences!


Amy Lee, Class of 2023

How did you find your REU?

I found my REU through Google actually. I knew I wanted to do clinical research so I specifically searched for ‘Summer clinical research opportunities’ and my program was one of the top searches there.

How did you make your REU application stand out?

I believe I made my REU application stand out by talking about why I wanted to study bioengineering and do research at UIUC. As COVID brought a huge set back to my interests, I expressed how I wanted to get out of the online labs and classes and actually experience what I am learning through research. 

What did you do in your REU?

This past summer, I was part of the PARAdiGM program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Specifically, this program was an MD/PhD preparation program for underrepresented undergraduates. There, I worked at the Gregory Fleming James Cystic FIbrosis Research Center under the supervision of Dr. Steven Rowe. In the lab, I focused on discovering the effects of the loss of a mucin gene on mucus flow using Micro-optical coherence tomography (µOCT). Using skills I learned from my bioengineering classes, I would analyze and model mucus flow using ImageJ and MATLAB. On the professional development side, I had the opportunity to present my research at the UAB Summer Expo, participate in presenting a Three Minute Thesis, shadow physicians, and even have MCAT prep classes. 

How has this experience impacted you going forward?

Thanks to the Rowe Lab and the people I worked with there, I realized how much I enjoyed the research process and the clinical applications behind them, solidifying my interests in pursuing a career involving both medicine and research.

Can you give any advice to a BIOE interested in applying for an REU?

If you have any interest in research, apply for REUs! Even if you don’t think you are not a strong applicant, it never hurts to try and apply. Go for all the programs you are interested in and apply early (and ask for recommendations early too)! Applications are free, so it’s all about getting your applications out there! In terms of the essays, I recommend writing about what made you interested in research in the first place and how your BIOE classes/undergraduate experiences so far have shaped your desires to pursue research stronger. Also, be personal and connect how you believe the programs will help you and your research pursuits in the long run. For instance, talk about the research opportunities at that institution, how UIUC may not have such opportunities, or even talk about a specific lab and PI that has peaked your interest. The process may be a lot, but as long as you have the want and dedicate yourself to the applications, you can do this!


Vongai Tizora, Class of 2022

How did you find your REU?

I heard of the Mayo Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program mainly through email (from the Cancer Center, Bioengineering Department, etc.). I also heard from word of mouth of previous fellows.

How did you make your REU application stand out?

I actually applied for this fellowship through the Mayo Clinic & Illinois Alliance my sophomore year and was not accepted the first time around. They have an early application process that reserves a set amount of spots for UIUC students, but you are always welcome to still apply directly through Mayo Clinic. My junior year, I did just that. Although it was a bit discouraging that I was not accepted the first time, I did not let that dissuade me from trying again.

Mayo Clinic SURF participants, Summer 2021
Mayo Clinic SURF participants Summer ’21. Vongai (lower right).

By the second time around, I had a bit more research experience and had spoken to enough people to truly highlight the initiative I took to learn more about their wonderful program. I also tied in my interests regarding disparities in healthcare and expressed my desire to better understand the intersection between medicine and science. One thing I will say for pre-med students is not to focus too much on being pre-med, that may actually work against you. Make sure they understand that you are primarily interested in the research experience.

What did you do in your REU?

I was placed in Dr. Jennifer Westendorf’s Skeletal Development and Regeneration Lab. It was truly a fantastic, invaluable experience. My project was focused on identifying molecular targets of protein phosphatase PHLPP in chondrocytes. Small molecule PHLPP inhibitor NSC117079 was a tool that we used to pharmacologically inhibit PHLPP and hypothesized PHLPP inhibition promotes progression through the cell cycle, leading to an increase in chondrocyte proliferation. Before my arrival, phosphorylation and RNA arrays were run searching for potential candidates, so I focused on validating these third party results through Western blots. I was able to use a plethora of the skills and knowledge I developed in Professor Karin Jensen’s BIOE 202: Cell & Tissue Engineering Lab. I also worked very closely with my mentor Dr. Sam Weaver, who played an instrumental role in my development as a scientist.

How has this experience impacted you going forward?

This experience has allowed me to network with experts in various fields who I would not have had the opportunity to interact with otherwise. I participated in the Nephrology & Urology SURF (nuSURF)program which is a sub-program that exposes students to research in those areas. This program was particularly interesting to me because I have expressed an interest in one day becoming a nephrologist. I was also able to shadow numerous specialties at the renowned Mayo Clinic health system where I was able to inquire about the intersection of medicine and science from medical professionals currently practicing. In addition, I had a wonderful experience getting to know my fellow SURFers (they hate being called that haha). Thursdays Downtown will always hold a special place in my heart (and gut)! Most importantly, I was able to gain clarity on whether research was something that I would like to pursue following graduation.

Can you give any advice to a BIOE interested in applying for an REU?

Cast a wide net. My junior year I probably applied to about 11 different programs and was only accepted into 2 with an interview to another program that I denied once I learned I had been accepted into the Mayo SURF program. You have to keep in mind that there are a limited number of spots available, but a surplus of students trying to secure a spot. All that means is that you have to do your best to both differentiate yourself and find a program that aligns with your interests. A door shut is just another opportunity to find the right fit for you, so keep your head held high and keep trying if you truly want to participate in an REU! Stay true to yourself and know that everything will work out how it is supposed to.


Abraham Alkhatib, Class of 2025

Contact: aaa26@illinois.edu


My summer REU experience at Wake Forest University served as a great first introduction to bioinformatics. I was able to work with talented students from all over the United States. I found my REU to be a perfect balance between work, experience, and research. My experiences helped me understand the purpose bioinformaticians play in healthcare, as I saw my work being implemented in hospitals and having a real effect on patient care. Furthermore, my fellow interns and I were even able to visit the Outer Banks during the Fourth of July holiday. Overall, I think an REU is a perfect way to spend your summer.