Current Graduate Students
PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering
Tracy joined the Markey lab in the fall of 2020. She grew up in Taiwan and completed her undergraduate in Biomedical Engineering and master’s degree in Electrical Engineering at the National Hsing Hua University. She also earned another master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering at UT Austin in 2022. Her broad research interests are using statistics and machine learning methods to help improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients. Her current project is to develop algorithms for the automated knitting of custom surgical bras for breast cancer survivors. Outside of the lab, Tracy enjoys baking, watching series, traveling, and playing video games.
PhD Candidate in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Xiomara joined BMIL in 2021 as a graduate student in Electrical and Computer Engineering. She obtained her B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from UC Berkeley. Her research is focused on leveraging machine learning approaches to develop health information tools that enhance patient-provider communications. She is also passionate about DEI initiatives on campus and is part of the Graduates for Underrepresented Minorities (GUM), as well as a mentor through the Society for Advancing Gender Equity in STEM (SAGES) program. Outside of the lab, she enjoys boxing, playing tennis, and searching for the best matcha latte in Austin.
PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering
Athena Louise Lopez joined BMIL in Fall 2023. She obtained her Masters of Engineering (M.Eng) with a concentration in Biomedical Engineering from UC Irvine and her B.S. in Bioengineering from UC Berkeley. Her previous experience working in biotechnology startups in research and development roles and working in biomaterials and chemistry research labs have provided Athena with a multifaceted skill set that includes creativity and a keen eye for the user persona. These experiences have propelled her to work on leveraging her interpersonal skills and background in computational methods to help improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients. Her work is focused on the patients' healing experience post-surgery. Her current project is on improving the standards of surgical bras for a positive healing journey by measuring the pressure and thermal characteristics of the surgical bra on and off the patient. Outside the lab, Athena is a Junior research facilitator for the INSPIRE program and actively works with undergraduates as a mentor. She enjoys food physically and spiritually and building her organ resistance by yelping Austin coffee shops.
PhD Student in Biomedical Engineering
Fadeel joined BMIL in Fall 2023 as a graduate student in Biomedical Engineering. He is from Lahore, Pakistan, and completed his B.S. in Bioengineering from Rice University, Houston, TX. His work revolves around building medical technologies that reduce health care disparities. His current project aims to increase access of Mohs surgery to treat skin cancer in underserved populations. Outside of the lab, Fadeel loves to travel and explore different cuisines.
PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering
Gabriela joined BMIL in 2023 as a graduate student in Biomedical Engineering. Leveraging her background in Industrial Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, she brings extensive experience in biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, and healthcare to her current endeavors. Gabriela’s commitment to data-driven research and continuous improvement is the foundation for her desire to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. With a strong statistical and technical background, she addresses clinical challenges by applying data modeling and informatics. She is determined to advance healthcare systems, aspiring to ensure universal access to quality care, regardless of socioeconomic background. Outside the lab, she likes cooking, exercising, and traveling with friends.
PhD Candidate in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Andrew graduated with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering with a focus in electromagnetics from Oklahoma State University in 2021. He grew up in Wichita Falls, TX. Andrew is a 4th-year electrical engineering Ph.D. student on the bioECE track co-advised by Emily Porter and Mia Markey. His research currently focuses on designing flexible applicators for microwave ablation, but more generally focuses on medical applications of RF/Microwaves. Andrew is also involved on campus as the president of GREECE, which is an organization that hosts companies and social events for graduate electrical engineering students.
Current Undergraduate Students
Undergraduate Student in Biomedical Engineering
Thao grew up in Vietnam and Texas. She is a 2nd-year Biomedical Engineering student at UT Austin. Her project focuses on conducting a literature analysis on the types of studies published in biomedical engineering field. She is very excited for this project and hoping that it would somehow contribute to future studies, even if it’s a small detail! Outside of lab, Thao loves to dance, binge as many shows as she can, and eat with loved ones.
Undergraduate Student in Biology
Griffin was born and raised in Texas and is currently a first-year Biology student on a pre-med track at UT Austin. His project centers on developing a model for breast thermoregulation. Outside of the lab, Griffin enjoys playing and watching sports, exploring Austin, and spending time with his loved ones.