
Biography
My name is Michael, and I am a senior undergraduate student from Charlotte, NC pursuing a major in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Computer Science at Bucknell University.
I have always a tinkerer. Legos, construction blocks, and toy science kits were never too far from my hands growing up, and I have always had a natural curiosity about how things work. As I continued to develop, I was naturally drawn to math and science, falling in love with the methodical, logic-driven approaches to problem-solving and exploration. Moving through high school, I stumbled into a part-time volunteering job at my local hospital. Through this job, I was introduced to surgeons, technicians, and most importantly, patients. I experienced the mesmerizing effect of watching critically ill patients be rushed into the emergency room, only to walk themselves out the front door during my next shift. In 2021, this new-found passion for healthcare and my natural aptitude for math, science, and design led me to Bucknell Biomedical Engineering.
At Bucknell, I've solidified my professional interests in Medical Devices R&D. I have contributed to complex, cutting-edge projects like wearable ultrasound applicators, microfluidic systems, and novel expandable spine implants. Through these extensive research projects, summer internships, and industry experience, I have developed the skills needed to thrive in the fast-paced, interdisciplinary, and innovative space of Medical Devices. Looking forward, I am eager to continue tackling complex technologies across mechanical, electrical, and software engineering domains, allowing me to leverage a diverse background to develop impactful, patient-centered solutions.
Honors & Certifications
Certified Onshape Associate, Onshape (January 2025)
FE Exam, Mechanical Engineering, NCEES (January 2025)
Fellow, Ciffolillo Healthcare Technology Inventors Program (Spring 2023)
Scholarship Recipient, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honors Society (Fall 2024)
On Campus Involvements
Co-President, Engineering Student Board (Fall 2024 - Spring 2025)
Membership Chair, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honors Society (Fall 2024 - Spring 2025)
Executive Board Member & Book Club Founder, Biomedical Engineering Society (Spring 2024 - Spring 2025)
Member, Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society (Spring 2022 - Spring 2025)
Publications
Daanen, M. A., Gabauer, D. J., & Riexinger, L. E. (2024). Characterization of Motorcycle Encroachments in the US. Transportation Research Record, 2678(7), 461-471.