Drug delivery via the gastrointestinal tract is effective and can be long-term due to the involvement of several major organs of the digestive system. This project is working towards a device that is able to function within the specific chemical conditions of the GI tract and complete self-actuated functions by utilizing knowledge of the GI environment, such as adherence to the intestinal lining after perceptions of the temperature, PH, or wetness of the environment. I will be working on the prototyping, fabrication, design modification, and data processing for the device with the goal of in vitro and in vivo testing. Ultimately, this project will allow for safer and more efficient gastrointestinal drug delivery.

I am participating in SuperUROP to not only be involved in advanced research but to also delve into medical devices as my ultimate goal is to serve others through my work in design. I took 2.007 (Manufacturing & Design I) and was fascinated by the design and iteration to problem solve throughout the entire design process. I’m excited to learn new skills and work on an object smaller than I am used to building.