Katie Schreiber is a 4th-year biomedical engineering major studying photothermal properties of nanobiomaterials for enhanced wound healing applications with Dr. Younan Xia. 

How long have you been an undergraduate researcher at Georgia Tech?

I have been involved in undergraduate research since Summer 2023 at Georgia Tech

How did you get involved with undergraduate research?

I got involved with undergraduate research by reaching out to faculty whose work aligned with my interests. My first experience was with SimTigrate Design Lab at Georgia Tech, where I contributed to projects aimed at designing safe and supportive environments for individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). As part of a collaborative team, I helped develop a series of educational videos highlighting how home environments can promote better sleep quality. I also contributed to a published study examining the tasks, behaviors, and challenges individuals with MCI face in the kitchen. I later shifted my research focus to nanobiomaterials for enhanced wound healing applications in Dr. Younan Xia’s lab, where I am currently involved in the development and analysis of photothermal-responsive materials.

What are you working on?

I’m currently working in Dr. Younan Xia’s lab on a project that combines materials science and biomedical engineering. My research focuses on developing polydopamine-coated hydroxyapatite (HAp@PDA) nanowires which are tiny, biocompatible structures designed to support wound healing. I synthesize the nanowires, coat them with a bioinspired polymer (polydopamine), and use vacuum filtration to create membranes. These membranes are then tested under near-infrared (NIR) light to explore their photothermal properties. Ultimately, I study how this light-triggered heating influences cell behavior, which could lead to more effective and responsive wound care materials.

What is your favorite thing about research/researching?

My favorite part of research is the opportunity to explore new possibilities for improving healthcare and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. I especially enjoy having endless opportunities to apply hands-on skills from my biomedical engineering coursework directly to my research projects. Courses like Organic Chemistry, Biotransport, Systems Physiology, and others at Georgia Tech have provided a strong foundation that continues to inform and guide my work in the lab.

What are your future plans and how has research influenced them?

I plan to pursue a Master’s in Biomedical Innovation and Development and work in research and development at a company focused on improving wound healing outcomes. My goal is to help create medical devices or biomaterials that significantly reduce the recovery time for patients. Being involved in undergraduate research has played a major role in shaping this path. It has shown me how innovation in the lab can directly impact patient care and inspired me to contribute to translational research that bridges engineering and medicine.