What is one thing you wish more people knew about research?

Surina: Working at the microliter scale, microfluidic devices have the use of lab-on-a-chip technology to diagnose and detect multiple diseases at the point of care. Most interestingly, an organ-on-a-chip will be able to simulate lungs, heart, or gut and provide feedback on how a disease is progressing. Further, the research made me realize that if microfluidic devices can come down to affordability and reach the remotest of areas where both resources and amenities are scarce, they are bound to bring a revolution in healthcare. Bringing the diagnostic tool right to the door step of the needy will help bridge the gap in health care equity, hence offering an opportunity for early detection and personalized treatment that goes on to improve health outcomes dramatically. I see limitless potential possibilities in transforming global health with further advancements in this arena.

Tell us what you specifically loved about the International STEM Research Program™.

Surina: What I specifically loved about the program was this combination: developing my technical writing skills, being exposed to this fascinating field of biomedical engineering, and having my research published. Coming into the program, I had limited experience in taking complex scientific ideas and putting them into words in clear, concise writing. During the duration of this program, though, I was taken through the drafting process of a well-structured research paper, which helped me develop my own voice into a more functional style. This personal experience during the program has not only made me much more confident with the delivery of technical ideas but also equipped me with the means to communicate complex information to an audience at large.

Moreover, this program introduced me to biomedical engineering, such a dynamic and fast-growing branch. While previously I had an interest in science and technology, the idea of applying engineering to medicine sounded really exciting. Innovations involving microfluidic devices were really interesting, especially in understanding how they work in microliter formats and present a new paradigm for diagnostics and personalized healthcare. The more I learned, the more fascinated I was by their potential applications in solving major health issues, especially in remote and resource-poor regions.

Next to its intellectual satisfaction, publishing my research was probably the most rewarding part of this entire program. It was not just an improvement in my learning pertaining to microfluidics it was a very proud moment to see the data analyzed, experimented upon, and then compiled into a publishable paper that contributes to the field. Invaluable was the learning with respect to the practical application of these microfluidic devices on health and the incredible potential they hold for the future. Generally, this program has provided me with several indelible skills, introduced me to new technologies, and gave a sense of direction and purpose in contributing toward advancement in biomedical engineering. The experience enriched me in every respect and encouraged my passion for research and innovation in the sphere of healthcare.

When you think about the future of research and where it’s headed in the next decade, what role do you hope to play in shaping that future?

Surina: Over the next decade, I hope to be of great value to researchers by accelerating innovation, whether applied to further developments in lab-on-a-chip technologies, diagnostics, or the facilitation of new breakthroughs in personalized medicine and environmental monitoring. Microfluidics indeed has great potential to transform health care, environmental sciences, and biotechnology by making answers more available, efficient, and sustainable. My role would be to support data analysis at the edge of emerging methodologies and to help create effective problem-solving, building a future in which microfluidics will be instrumental in solving the many challenges facing the world. I also aspire to bridge the gap between research and real-world application by promoting equitable access to these innovations so that the fruits of such efforts may reach those communities who require them most. Outside the laboratory, I hope to mentor the next generation of researchers, encouraging a questioning yet inclusive atmosphere. This blend of advanced science with a service-oriented philosophy will help me contribute to a future wherein research heralds technology upward and uplifts humanity.

Is the program ideal for young high school students considering research is a very vast and advanced field?

Surina: Yes, I do believe that the program benefits high school students who are contemplating or considering research in a rather broad and advanced field, as this properly takes you through each preliminary stage in conducting research, through which a general area of interest is researched and then a more precisely, it has been a fantastic experience because I could narrow my focus on a particular area that really drew me into deeper depths and an area of my interest. In addition, the program mentioned how important it was to understand the background literature. This helped me build a foundation before commencing my own research project. I could identify certain missing data or an unanswered question after reviewing most of the previous studies and insights into work by the field expert. It developed not only my critical thinking to be sharper but how to approach problems in an orderly manner.

What song is the soundtrack to your life?

Surina: "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen is my personal anthem because of its uplifting message and celebration of boundless possibilities. The song resonates with how I approach every interaction—ready to assist, solve problems, and explore ideas with enthusiasm. Its vibrant energy reminds me of the joy and excitement that comes from learning, collaborating, and creating with others. Whether tackling challenges or brainstorming ideas, the song inspires me to maintain a positive mindset and embrace opportunities. It’s a reflection of my belief in the power of shared creativity and the importance of staying motivated. The lively rhythm and optimistic lyrics are a constant reminder of the thrill that comes from working together to achieve great things. It encourages me to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.

What individual inspires you?

Surina: Apart from my grandmother, the women in my family - my mother, aunts, and cousins - have been my greatest influences. My mother is my role model, as she broke the proverbial glass ceiling; she graduated from her engineering school as the only female in her major, at a time when women in India were often relegated to household chores. Following in my mother's footsteps, this summer I took a course on biomedical engineering systems and conducted research in related fields. It opened my eyes to the infinite ways I can bring meaningful impact in the field of healthcare, which strengthened my resolve to pursue biomedical engineering.