My name is Meagan Tran, and I am a rising 3rd year student majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Mathematics and Molecular & Cellular Biology. I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona but since moving to Tucson, I have fallen in love with the food, people, and scenery here. In my spare time, I love exploring nature by hiking, camping, and rock climbing. I climb at Rocks & Ropes at least twice a week, and on Mount Lemmon at least once a month—it’s a great way to briefly get away from my stress, as I leave all my worries on the ground. This will be my third year doing research in Dr. Zohar’s Integrated Microsystems Lab. I am building and designing a model lung-on-a-chip. Current models of the lung used for testing (such as mouse models or tissue cultures) do not accurately represent all the functions of the lung – for instance, the active airflow and stretching that goes along with breathing. The lung-on-a-chip is a small device that exposes lung tissues to both air and blood flow. Soon, I hope to be able to use the device I create by testing toxins or pathogens on the chip. I am truly grateful that UBRP has given me the opportunity to work behind-the-scenes in a lab to truly understand the work and perseverance that goes into creating new products and ideas. In the future, I hope to attend medical school (I am also busy studying for the MCAT this summer) and become a physician who truly understands innovative medical technologies.
The University of Arizona’s Undergraduate Biology Research Program is partnering with KXCI 91.3 to produce “Thesis Thursday,” a weekly segment featuring student researchers talking about their undergraduate thesis projects, or research projects while working with University professors. Students describe their research, their overall goals and career interests and where they think their research will lead. As well, they get a chance to share the music and interests that motivate them.Broadcast three times every Thursday with a new student each week.
