Desai said, “This hands-on experience allowed me to deepen my understanding of how cutting-edge research can translate into practical, life-saving applications in cancer therapy.”  

During her time at UT Southwestern, Desai worked in the Azab Lab, exploring the innovative field of microfluidics and drug delivery systems. Desai focused specifically on producing nanoparticles designed to improve cancer treatment. 

Desai’s project involved customizing liposome sizes to enhance the efficiency of drug delivery to tumors. The goal was to develop therapeutic strategies that minimize off-target effects while maximizing effectiveness in targeting cancer cells.  

Through this research, Desai gained critical experience in the translational aspects of biomedical engineering, particularly in the design and optimization of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems.  She demonstrated how cutting-edge nanotechnology can be used to move novel treatments from the lab bench toward clinical application. 

This internship has been a transformative experience, equipping Desai with the skills and knowledge needed to advance in her biomedical engineering career. With a bright future ahead, she is eager to apply what she has learned to her ongoing studies and future research.