Sophia Waters
Summary
Biomedical engineering master’s student with experience in bioinstrumentation, engineering design, and interdisciplinary research at University of Colorado Boulder, seeking a Teaching Assistant role for the 2026–2027 academic year. Skilled in technical communication, mentoring, MATLAB, Python, prototyping, and biomedical laboratory techniques.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Volunteer MRI Waitroom Assistant
Boulder Community Health
Boulder, Colorado
01.2026 - Current
- Streamlined patient flow by preparing patients for MRI procedures.
- Coordinated communication between healthcare providers and patients for effective care delivery.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Molas Laboratory (IBG)
Boulder, Colorado
05.2025 - 12.2025
- Incorporated machine learning in SimBA and SLEAP pipelines (Bash, Anaconda) to automate behavioral scoring for data collection; presented findings and translational insights.
- Poster: Williams, E., Snively, L., Keppler, E., Simpson, P., Means, J., Hoel, F., Flenard, I., Waters, S., Baratta, M., Molas, S. Striatal dopamine in threat responses and adaptive learning. American College of Neuropsychopharmacology.
- Conducted literature reviews to support ongoing research projects in behavioral genetics.
Manager
Deja Vu Boutique
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
06.2018 - 08.2024
- Delegated tasks and trained staff in retail operations, inventory inspection, and point-of-sale systems.
- Trained and supervised new employees on customer service standards.
Education
Biomedical Engineering M.S. -
University of Colorado
Boulder05-2027
Biomedical Engineering B.S. | Neuroscience B.A. -
University of Colorado
Boulder05-2026
Skills
- Prototyping: 3D Printing, SOLIDWORKS, Material Testing, Soldering, Laser Cutting
- Engineering Competency: Problem Solving, Technical Writing
- Coding: MATLAB, Simulink, Simetrix, Python, Visual Basic, Arduino IDE, RStudio, Microsoft Office Suite, Machine Learning
- Lab Techniques: Microscopy, Chromatography, MNova, Dissection, Cell Culture, Gel Electrophoresis, qPCR, IHC
- Clinical Skills: Patient Interaction, OR Workflow Optimization
- Soft Skills: Communication, Collaboration, Reliability, Flexibility
Accomplishments
- CU Esteemed Scholars-Hale, Buffs Abroad, Society of Women Engineers, Engineering Scholarship Fund, J. Ranald Fox Memorial Fund Scholarship
Projects
- Custom Sterile Packaging for Flowable Implant: Led QA and materials engineering for dual-syringe packaging system, conducting iterative regulatory testing and ensuring compliance with ISO 11607, ISTA 3A, and ASTM F1929; optimized design for OR workflow.
- Overstimulation Tracking Wristband: Developed wristband with integrated sensors to detect overstimulation based on skin conductance, heart rate, and repetitive movements; improved ergonomics across prototypes.
- Obstacle Avoidance Vehicle: Developed small-scale obstacle avoidance vehicle composed of seven subcircuits; communicated functionality through technical reports.
- Characterization of a Novel Bacteriophage: Isolated and analyzed bacteriophage using spot tests, electron microscopy, and restriction digest; presented findings.
Advanced Coursework
- Biomedical Engineering: BME Senior Design Capstone, Anatomy and Physiology for Biomedical Engineers, Bioinstrumentation, Biotransport
- Electrical Engineering: Intro to Circuits, Circuits as Systems, Electronics Design Lab, Engineering Genetic Circuits, Neuromodulation
- Mathematics: Applied Data Analysis, Differential Equations & Linear Algebra
- Chemistry: General Chemistry for Engineers, Organic Chemistry (With Lab), Biochemistry
- Biology: Tissue Engineering, Microbiology, Genetics, Phage Genomics, Metabolic Engineering
Leadership Experience
- President, Engineering Leadership and Literature Association (ELLA): Directed group discussions about engineering ethics in the context of literature review.
- Peer Mentorship: Mentor to five college students, guiding them personally, academically, and professionally.
- GOLD Applied Leadership Practice (ALP): Designed volunteer projects in a collaborative setting, discussing civic responsibility and leadership.
Certification
- CSWA Certified
- Working with Mice in Research
- Working with the IACUC
Timeline
Volunteer MRI Waitroom Assistant
Boulder Community Health
01.2026 - Current
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Molas Laboratory (IBG)
05.2025 - 12.2025
Manager
Deja Vu Boutique
06.2018 - 08.2024
Biomedical Engineering M.S. -
University of Colorado
Biomedical Engineering B.S. | Neuroscience B.A. -
University of Colorado