Draelos Intern Jean Choi Works on Bioreactor Research

This summer, Jean Choi, a participant in the Draelos Science Scholars Program, joined the Oliveira Lab for an immersive research experience focused on bioreactor development and biotechnology.

During her time in the lab, Jean contributed to the development and validation of small-scale bioreactor systems using Pioreactor and Chi.Bio platforms. Her work included assembling hardware, setting up experimental systems, troubleshooting technical issues, and testing components to help ensure reliable operation.

A major goal of the project was to prototype a network of bioreactors that can support future research in the Oliveira Lab. Working alongside lab researchers, Jean gained firsthand experience with the engineering process, from building and configuring equipment to testing sensors, pumps, and system performance in a real laboratory environment.

The experience also allowed Jean to strengthen her skills in engineering, programming, experimental testing, and problem-solving, while learning how researchers from different technical backgrounds collaborate to develop tools for biological research.

“Working in the Oliveira Lab gave me the opportunity to help build and prototype bioreactor systems while developing practical engineering and programming skills through real laboratory work. I especially enjoyed working closely with researchers, troubleshooting the systems, and seeing how engineering can directly support biological research.” — Jean Choi

Jean concluded her summer research experience by presenting her project and sharing the work she completed in the Oliveira Lab. Her contributions to the bioreactor platform provide a foundation that can support continued experimentation and future research projects in the lab.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•