Physician-Engineer Trainee Spotlights

Alex Kiel

Why did you choose to become a physician engineer?

During my time as an undergraduate student, I found a deep interest in medicine through shadowing and talking with both physicians and patients. I have always enjoyed science and research, and thought that combining my engineering education with medicine could present a unique way to improve current clinical techniques.

What does being a physician engineer mean to you?

I think physician engineers are extremely well suited to bridge the gap between development and clinical use. As a result, physician engineers should be able to give unique engineering perspectives to the medical field, and unique medical perspectives to the engineering field.

Why is the joint Purdue MD-PhD BME-IUSM program a good fit for you?

The combination of the two programs gives students access to top tier training in both graduate engineering and medicine. I feel that the program is a great fit due to the academic options, but also the people involved. Throughout my training, I have noticed that administrators and mentors truly want the best for students, and it has made everything much more enjoyable and successful.

What is one of your most memorable experiences since you came into the program?

My most memorable experience was becoming friends with other students in the program, and especially those within my class. Not only are other students fantastic friends, but they have also given valuable support and advice.

Describe the graduate student community that you are a part of; do you feel supported?

I absolutely feel supported and that I belong in the community of both students and faculty.

What do you do for fun outside of the program?

I enjoy spending time outside (hiking, biking, walking, fishing, etc.), being a foodie, watching movies, sports, and shows, as well as spending time with friends.

What advice would you give to a prospective student?

As a MSTP student, you will be spending an additional 3-4 years in school when compared to just medical or graduate school. Think about it, and make sure that you want to do both medicine and research, rather than just one or the other. If so, the MSTP is one of the absolute best ways to get fantastic training in both fields.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Don’t rush through the process of choosing your next educational steps. Take time to think about what you want to end up doing, and talk with people in those fields. Try to spend time shadowing as well as time doing research to see if you will enjoy doing both in the future. If you believe that medicine and engineering research is for you, the MSTP through IUSM and Purdue is a perfect opportunity, and I highly recommend applying!