Overview

​

​Since junior year, I have been working as a research intern in the Herbots Lab under the mentorship of Dr. Nicole M. Herbots, Ph.D., at ASU’s Solid State Physics Lab and SiO2 Innovates LLC. My project, titled “Surface Sterilization Using 260–280 nm UVC LEDs: Achieving <10⁻¹ Probability of Residual Pathogens through Enhanced Reproducibility and Accuracy,” focuses on developing and validating a quantitative UVC sterilization method using 260–280 nm LEDs to achieve a Sterility Assurance Level (SAL) of 10⁻⁶ by measuring how effectively the UV light reduces harmful pathogens. I analyze pathogen levels before and after UV exposure to assess the technology’s disinfection reliability. I co-authored a research abstract on improving sterilization accuracy and reproducibility, which was accepted for presentation at the AVS International Symposium 2025. I presented this work at the Arizona Science & Engineering Fair (AZSEF), where I received the Yale Science & Engineering Award for Most Outstanding Exhibit and earned 1st place in Biomedical Engineering at the regional fair. I continue to contribute to experimental design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation.

​

​

Personal importance of this work

​​

This research brings together my interests in physics, biology, and engineering to tackle real-world health challenges. Working on UVC sterilization technology opened my eyes to how science can directly improve public safety, especially in infection control. I learned how to design precise experiments, handle complex data, and communicate findings clearly. Winning awards and sharing my research boosted my confidence and deepened my passion for biomedical innovation.