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Lukas Buecherl is a fourthÌýyear PhDÌýstudent in the Biomedical Engineering Program and is earningÌýan Interdisciplinary Quantative BiologyÌý(IQ Biology) PhD CertificateÌýdesigned for students in life sciences, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics who are interested in joining a network of interdisciplinary faculty and peers inÌýacademiaÌýandÌýindustry.

What brought you to the University of Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Boulder and attracted you to the BME program?

I initially began my academic journey at the University of Utah for one semester. However, when my principal investigator received a job offer, I made the decision to relocate with him. Since then, I haven't looked back. Being part of a brand new BME program at the University of Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Boulder sounded like a great opportunity to me.

Tell us about your research. What is it that you study?

I'm working in a field called synthetic biology within the lab. Essentially, we apply engineering principles to tweak cells so they perform specific tasks for us. Picture this: cells programmed to help us recycle waste or manufacture expensive pharmaceuticals in a more affordable way. My specific focus within the field is on genetic circuits. These circuits are constructed using DNA and inserted into bacteria. However, there are numerous ways these circuits can go awry. My role involves investigating these potential failures and devising strategies to enhance the circuits' performance.

How did you first get involved in your research and what drew you to it?Ìý

While completing my degree in electrical engineering, I ended up working on brain-machine interfaces for my bachelor thesis. Since then I got stuck in the realm of biomedical engineering, although my alma mater, the University of Ulm, didn't offer a program in this field at the time.

Fortunately, one of my professors suggested I explore opportunities in the United States. With his guidance, I worked through the application process, eventually finding myself here. Soon after, my current principal investigator reached out to me, introducing me to the field of synthetic biology.

The prospect of applying my electrical engineering skills in a completely new context sounded really cool. The work seemed both familiar and new, presenting an exciting challenge in integrating biology into my expertise. Despite initially never envisioning myself in a wet lab setting, I now spend my time pipetting hopefully happy bacteria from one plate to another. It's been a journey of blending the known with the unknown, and I couldn't be more happy to be a part of it.

What kinds of challenges do you encounter in your research?

That a day has only 24 hours! Besides that, one common challenge arises when experiments fail, despite me following the protocols thoroughly. Similarly, coding can sometimes be a headache, with programs not running as anticipated and issues persisting for days on end.

However, I've learned that taking a step back and switching gears can often lead to breakthroughs. Whether it's stepping away from the lab bench to work on code, or vice versa, this flexibility allows me to approach problems from different angles. It's one of the advantages of working across both experimental and computational domains – there's always the option to shift focus and gain fresh a perspective.

What advice would you share with a student interested in studying biomedical engineering or your specific field?

First and foremost, I'd encourage any student interested in biomedical engineering, or specifically my field, to consider what they are specifically interested in. Biomedical engineering is incredibly diverse, offering a wide array of research avenues to explore.

Given that the community in my field is relatively small, I believe it's easier for new students to actively engage with others. Don't hesitate to reach out to researchers or professionals who interest you; networking can often open doors to exciting opportunities.

Equally important is the decision of who to collaborate and work with. Choose your collaborators thoughtfully, as these partnerships can greatly influence the trajectory of your research and career. Ultimately, staying curious, proactive, and selective in your collaborations can pave the way for a fulfilling journey in biomedical engineering.

As a PhD/Master student, what role has mentoring played in your work?Ìý

Of course mentorship plays a major role throughout your PhD, both as a mentee and as a mentor. Your advisor can significantly impact your research and academic experience. As a mentee, it is important to come prepared for meetings and ask targeted questions to get the help you need. Don't hesitate to seek help when needed – a simple email can often provide immediate clarity and prevent daylong frustration.

Furthermore, relationships with a diverse network of mentors is super helpful. Each mentor brings a different perspective and expertise to the table, enriching your development as a researcher. Whether they're at different stages in their careers or located in different parts of the world, it is always good to hear different opinions.Ìý

As a mentor myself, I dedicate time to my mentees. I believe in starting off each project by discussing their goals and aspirations. By aligning the project with their interests and future plans, we can tailor their experience to foster skill development and personal growth. Ultimately, mentorship should be a reciprocal relationship that enhances the academic journey for both mentors and mentees alike.

How would you like your work to help society?

My field claims many possible impacts on society ranging from affordable pharmaceuticals to sustainable energy solutions and climate change resilience. Of course it sounds very inspiring, however,Ìý my immediate focus is on making smaller contributions that may not save the world overnight, but certainly move us in the right direction.

What do you love best about attending Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Boulder?

Of course, the location is unbeatable, and the same goes for the weather. I'm also a huge sports fan, so watching the Buffs, especially the women’s basketball team, play always brings me a lot of joy