MELISSA RIVAS
Naples,FL
Summary
Innovative biomedical engineering student with extensive research experience in 3D bioprinting, biomechanics, and surgical robotics. Demonstrated expertise in advanced laboratory techniques, including motion capture analysis and SEM operation, complemented by strong programming skills in MATLAB. Proven track record of conducting impactful research projects, presenting findings at professional conferences, and collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary teams, having contributed to the development of 3D bioprinted tissue scaffolds with optimized cell viability and analyzed the efficacy of robotic surgical systems.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Assistant
Whitaker College of Engineering
08.2024 - 01.2025
- Examined the relationship between femur length relative to trunk length and the closeness to ideal squat posture during a high barbell versus low barbell squat position, with the aim of optimizing the bar placement for individuals based on their proportions
- Conducted advanced motion analysis of squat biomechanics using an 8-camera Vicon system (200 Hz) and AMTI 6-axis force plates to investigate hip flexion angles and joint torques
- Designed and implemented a marker set protocol for 3D motion capture, strategically placing reflective markers on key anatomical landmarks to define joint centers and body segments
- Developed MATLAB scripts for computational analysis of kinematic data, including: Projection of 3D marker positions onto 2D sagittal plane, Establishment of segmental reference planes and coordinate frames, Calculation of hip flexion angles and net joint torques
- Utilized signal processing techniques to filter and analyze motion capture and force plate data
- Performed quantitative assessment of squat technique deviations from optimal posture using custom algorithms
- Integrated anthropometric measurements into biomechanical models to account for individual participant variations
- Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to design experimental protocols and ensure adherence to proper squat form guidelines
- Research is pending publication
Research Assistant
Whitaker College of Engineering
08.2024 - 12.2024
- Investigated 3D bioprinting techniques for creating biomimetic scaffolds in tissue engineering
- Analyzed bioink properties, focusing on gelatin and sodium alginate ratios for optimal scaffold mechanics and cell viability
- Evaluated the impact of varying gelatin to sodium alginate ratios on cell proliferation
- Compared pre-seeding and post-seeding methods for NIH3T3 fibroblasts in 3D hydrogel scaffolds
- Prepared NIH3T3 fibroblasts using CellTracker Green CMFDA staining protocol
- Formulated bioink with varying ratios of gelatin and sodium alginate (1:1, 1.5:1, and 2:1)
- Utilized extrusion-based 3D printing with a modified Prusa i3 printer to create cylindrical scaffolds
- Implemented pre-seeding and post-seeding methods for cell incorporation
- Conducted fluorescent microscopy imaging and analysis using MATLAB for cell count and confluency
- Performed swelling and degradation studies on hydrogel scaffolds to assess stability and porosity
- Executed statistical analysis using MANOVA test and F-test to determine correlations between testing factors
- Presented the research at the Symposium of Undergraduate Research and Internships (SURI)
Research Assistant
Whitaker College of Engineering
05.2024 - 10.2024
- Created and modified g-code for a Prusa i3 printer to print hydrogels composed of unique bio-ink compositions for the purpose of testing their mechanical properties to optimize their composition
- Determined a relationship between geometric accuracy of the print, scaffold stiffness, and stability during extraction from an agar support bath and the optimal sodium alginate to gelatin ratio in the hydrogel
- Developed tests to establish mechanical integrity of the hydrogels, to better identify the most favorable gelatin to sodium alginate ratio in the bio-ink
- Developed a protocol for producing the optimal biopolymer ink for bioprinting applications
- Captured and analyzed Scanning Electron Microscopy images to determine the topography and pore size of the hydrogels, for future seeding of cells in the biopolymer scaffolds
- Analyzed and interpreted results of the data to determine which hydrogel composition would be most favorable for 3D bioprinting applications and cell seeding
- Presented the research at the 2024 Biomedical Engineering Society Annual Meeting
Surgical Robotics and Medical Device Internship
Jackson North Medical Center
05.2024 - 08.2024
- Observed and analyzed over 30 robotic-assisted surgeries utilizing the Da Vinci Surgical System, gaining in-depth knowledge of advanced medical robotics
- Conducted comprehensive research on the Da Vinci system's components, functionality, and operational principles, enhancing understanding of robotic surgical technologies
- Engaged with surgeons to gather insights on preferred surgical tools and areas for improvement, contributing to the development of user-centric medical devices
- Observed various non-robotic surgical procedures, including knee replacements, hernia repairs, and ACL reconstructions, to understand diverse surgical techniques and requirements
- Interviewed medical device company representatives to gain knowledge of design and manufacturing processes, focusing on biomedical engineering applications
- Investigated key metrics and factors influencing medical device procurement decisions in hospital systems, developing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare technology adoption
- Analyzed the precision, accuracy, and limitations of the Da Vinci system through targeted inquiries, assessing its suitability for complex surgical procedure
- Explored economic considerations and cost factors associated with implementing robotic surgical systems in healthcare settings
Front Desk, DNAP Management
Keiser University
01.2023 - 05.2024
- Rout calls to the appropriate departments, maintain student information up-to-date, and facilitate communication between students and their professors to ensure student retention and success
- Examine documents and applications of over 1,500 applicants for the Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Program (DNAP), organize applicant transcripts, verify RN licenses, and calculate GPAs to confirm all the applicants meet the minimum requirements for the program prior to interviewing
- Develop files for applicants and approved candidates, maintain an updated spreadsheet with all the interview information and requirements missing from each applicant to certify that all the staff involved in the interview process are aware of the new applications entering the system
Suture Operator
Arthrex
11.2020 - 09.2022
- Constructed sutures, needles, and devices for orthopedic surgeries following the specified work order and maintained a production standard of 100% to ensure the completion of the order at hand
- Inspected sutures, needles, and devices to confirm the correct assembly of the product and guarantee product efficiency
- Analyzed blueprints and instruction manuals to verify the correct construction of a medical device
- Operated an automatic suture tipping and cutting machine to cut and glue sutures, which would then be inspected and packaged before being placed on the production line and used to make other medical devices
- Maintained and regularly inspected the automatic suture tipping and cutting machines to prevent a disruption in production due to machine failures
- Operated a laser to cut smaller fragments of suture and then inspected and used for production
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Engineering
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, FL05.2025
Associate of Arts -
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, FL05.2022
Skills
- MS Office Suite
- SolidWorks (CSWA)
- MATLAB
- Rapid Prototyping
- SEM Operation and Analysis
- Data collection and Analysis
- Spanish fluency
- Machine learning
Affiliations
- Engineers Without Borders
- Biomedical Engineering Society
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Research Assistant
Whitaker College of Engineering
08.2024 - 01.2025
Research Assistant
Whitaker College of Engineering
08.2024 - 12.2024
Research Assistant
Whitaker College of Engineering
05.2024 - 10.2024
Surgical Robotics and Medical Device Internship
Jackson North Medical Center
05.2024 - 08.2024
Front Desk, DNAP Management
Keiser University
01.2023 - 05.2024
Suture Operator
Arthrex
11.2020 - 09.2022
Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Engineering
Florida Gulf Coast University
Associate of Arts -
Florida Gulf Coast University
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