People

Lesley W. Chow, PhD (she/her)
Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) & Bioengineering (BIOE)
Postdoc, Materials & Bioengineering, Imperial College London
PhD, Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University
BS, Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida
lac415 at lehigh.edu

Matthew Diaz (BIOE) (he/him)
BS, Biological Sciences, Lehigh University
mjd225 at lehigh.edu

[Coming soon!]

Devon Ennis (BIOE) (she/her)
BS, Bioengineering, Lehigh University
dee225 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on fabricating and functionalizing solvent-cast membranes with applications in corneal replacement. I am particularly interested in identifying and evaluating peptides that enhance cell adhesion and biocompatibility. By tailoring surface chemistry, I aim to improve biomaterial integration with native tissue and support long-term functionality. In my own time, I like sitting with my cat to read books and watch reality tv shows. My favorite season is the summer, and I love going to the beach! Fun fact: I am surprisingly coordinated and can skateboard, snowboard, ski, surf, ice skate, and rollerskate.

Chiebuka Okpara (BIOE, joint with TGF Lab) (he/him)
BS, Biomedical Engineering, The College of New Jersey
cho222 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on characterizing a peptide-polymer-based scaffold that will respond to localized anti-inflammatory cytokines. I’m particularly interested in designing 3D-printed constructs that are tunable for the cellular microenvironment. Outside of the lab, I enjoy drawing, exercising, watching movies, and getting out of my comfort zone (e.g., learning how to swim). Fun fact: When I was in high school, I visited Lehigh University for the first time to compete in the FIRST Robotics Competition Mid-Atlantic District Championship.

Gerardo Ortega Oviedo (BIOE) (he/they)
BS, Biomedical Physics, National Autonomous University of México
feo222 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on the use of growth factor-mimetic peptides to induce osteochondral tissue regeneration. I am particularly interested in controlling the spatial and temporal delivery of these peptides in the presence of cells through bioorthogonal click chemistry. I’m a queer Mexican and outside the lab I really like watching TV series and movies (except horror), exercising, going to theater, drag shows and coffee shops, camping and getting to know new places. Fun Fact: I’m so used to drinking coffee that it doesn’t keep me awake anymore.

Korina Vida Sinad (CHEM) (she/her)
BS, Chemistry & M.S. Biochemistry, University of the Philippines Los Baños,
kgs221 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on fabricating poly(caprolactone) (PCL)-based scaffolds containing protease-sensitive peptides. These peptides are designed to degrade in response to cell-mediated processes that occur during tissue regeneration, thus mimicking the dynamic nature of native cell-ECM interactions and enabling complete tissue growth and regeneration. Outside the lab, I enjoy volleyball, concerts, nature-related activities, and amigurumi. Fun fact: I have a life motto and it’s “nothing ventured, nothing gained.”  Also, I stan SB19. Pinoy pride, let’s go!

Percival the Plant

My research focuses on photosynthesis and water uptake. I am thankful to have lab mates, especially Natasha, who take great care of me. Outside the lab, I enjoy bringing some greenery and happiness to the hallways of the STEPS building. Fun fact: I spend 24/7 at the lab, sitting on top of a free library where my lab mates share books with the community.

Rosa Chowshuck (2017-2025)
*BS, Basic Obedience
(joint with Pashuck Lab)

My research focused on getting as many pets and treats as possible. I was particularly interested in whatever you were eating and what you would be eating in the future. Outside the lab, I enjoyed naps, the dog park, hiking, food, swimming, ducks, eating, sleeping, getting pets, snacks, and more naps. Fun fact: I was the goodest girl and am now in doggie heaven eating all of the treats.

*awarded posthumously.

Alexis Kelerchian (she/her)
’26 Bioengineering, Lehigh University
Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholar
alk626 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on synthesizing growth factor-mimetic peptides that can influence cell behavior. By conjugating them into PCL, I aim to have control over their spatial presentation on 3D-printed scaffolds. Outside of the lab, I enjoy reading, playing volleyball, and weight-lifting. Fun fact: Every time I read a book, I mark its width on my door frame – I hope to one day read my height in books!

Juliana Magarelli (she/her)
’27 Bioengineering, Lehigh University
Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholar
jnm227 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on characterizing the release kinetics of conjugated fluorophores and glucocorticoids from 3D-printed peptide-polymer scaffolds seeded with human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs). I am evaluating how the presence of cells and extracellular matrix deposition influence drug release and diffusion. Outside of the lab, I enjoy painting my nails, going on runs, crocheting, and baking! Fun fact: My first time baking a cake was for my mom’s birthday, and my hair caught on fire!

Olivia Lundquist (she/her)
’26 Materials Science and Engineering, Lehigh University
oal226 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on characterizing the optical and mechanical properties of functionalized chitosan/PCL membranes. These membranes will be used as an alternative to donor corneal tissue for cornea transplantation. Outside the lab, you can find me baking, playing tennis, and doing any kind of arts and crafts project. I also love going on little adventures and exploring with my friends. Fun fact: I have had a piece of pencil lead stuck in my hand since fifth grade.

Matthew O’Connell (he/him)
’26 Materials Science and Engineering, Lehigh University
mao426 at lehigh.edu

My research focuses on promoting cartilage formation by modifying the surface modulus of our 3D-printed scaffolds. I aim to soften the scaffold surface using hydrophilic polymers while keeping the mechanical properties of the bulk scaffold the same. Outside of the lab, I like rock climbing, trumpet-playing, and reading. Fun fact: I have a chicken named Meggatron.