Rupashi Sood
Major
Chemical and Biological Engineering
CEAS Award
Research Award
Post-graduation plans
Working as a quality engineer at Medtronic in Lafayette, Colorado
Why were you selected for this award?
In the Hind Lab, my research focuses on how immune cells interact with blood vessels during inflammation. I study how macrophages, immune cells that detect and clean up pathogens and debris, Ìýinfluence neutrophils, which can release web-like structures called neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs help fight infection but can damage tissue if overproduced. We use a micro-fluidic "vessel on a chip" device to recreate cell interactions and NET production in a controlled environment. This research helps improve our understanding of autoimmune diseases in which the immune system becomes overactive and damages native tissue in the body. By identifying how immune cell interactions can contribute to harmful inflammation, this work could eventually support the development of treatments to reduce tissue damage without weakening the body's ability to fight infection. This can lead to better therapies for patients with chronic inflammatory diseases.Ìý
What is your favorite Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder memory?
It's impossible to pick just one! I will forever remember the late nights I've spent with my friends. Whether we were studying for exams, sitting on the couch after long days, or celebrating small wins, those moments made the busy and stressful parts of college feel worth it and reminded me to enjoy the people and time along the way.Ìý
What is your best piece of advice for other students?
My best piece of advice is to take advantage of the time you have with the people around you. It's easy to get caught up in grades and school, but some of the most meaningful parts of college are the times you share with others. The work is important, but the memories you make along the way are what truly stay with you.