2026 Testimonials
Ashhar Adnan
Wearable IMUs for Tracking Hemiplegic Gait
"The RES-MATCH program is a nice way for like-minded students and professors to connect and work on research that helps make the world a better place. During the semester, the program provided ample financial support to help achieve the project deliverables and allowed students to have a hands-on research experience."
Nur Arslan
Smartphone-Based Biosensors for the Point-of-Care Testing of Metabolites
"Overall, I felt the [RES-MATCH] project was an enriching experience. I have learned several useful laboratory and scientific skills, such as the performance and interpretation of spectrophotometry and proper instrument handling skills. This project was also an opportunity to strengthen existing skills, such as solution preparation and sample purification. I also believe that this project has introduced me to new concepts, such as chemical characterization methods, including SEM imaging and XRD scans, and helped me understand concepts discussed in my analytical chemistry course hands-on. In all, I believe this project has fortified my interest in chemistry and opened the door to the applications of chemistry in sensing."
Chandler Besse
The Impact of Field-Realistic Nicotine Exposure on Odorant Information Processing and Navigation in Bombus Impatiens (The Common Eastern Bumblebee)
"I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside Matthew Smith on this research project. It has been an incredible learning opportunity that has allowed me to develop new skills and improve existing ones. This project has opened my eyes to the broader applications of artificial intelligence and computer vision [that] I had never considered. Professor Smith was always enthusiastic and happy to answer my questions, leading to many insightful conversations. As an AI major, I have always been interested in research. This experience has nourished that interest and is pushing me further in that direction. Professor Smith and I have discussed methods to improve this experiment and develop the project further, so I am incredibly excited for the upcoming semester! This experience was invaluable; so, to improve RES-MATCH, I would suggest increasing the number of projects to allow even more undergraduate students the opportunity to explore research."
Dahee Chung
Functional and Genomic Clustering in the Colon
"Participation in the RES-MATCH program provided valuable experience in executing an end-to-end research project, from data preprocessing and statistical testing to machine learning and integrative modeling. The structured milestones and regular feedback facilitated steady progress, while the flexibility of the program allowed exploration of advanced methods."
Kaleb Ecklund
Porous Scaffolds with Tunable Swelling Properties for Drug Delivery Applications
"My overall impressions of the [RES-MATCH] program and my project specifically are positive. Over the course of the semester, I have gained multiple skills in hydrogel synthesis and cryogel synthesis. Furthermore, I have learned multiple ways in which these materials can be tested to determine their material and absorption properties. Lastly, I learned a significant amount about the general field of hydrogels, a field that I likely would not have had the opportunity to experience this early in my career without this opportunity. Many of the Ph.D. programs that I am applying to are performing interesting biomedical research through hydrogels, so I believe that this project has prepared me well to become a contributor in similar projects during graduate school."
Bethany Feather
Construction of Shielded Microfluidic Devices
"Overall, this project provided meaningful insight into the relationship between mechanical design, material selection, and microfluid fabrication requirements. The iterative design process highlighted the importance of understanding material behavior, 3D-printing constraints, and lab procedures when designing equipment for biomedical engineering applications. The design achieved during this semester establishes a strong foundation for continued improvements."
Christian Yvelisse González Aragon
Metabolic Pathway Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria: Insights into Mechanisms of Persistence and Adaptation
"Participating in a microbiology laboratory for the [RES-MATCH] project allowed me to develop a wide range of technical and analytical skills. Throughout the project, I gained essential laboratory competencies, including biosafety training, sterile and aseptic techniques, cell culture maintenance, bacterial handling, cell infection assays, serial dilutions, bacterial colony seeding and harvesting, and quantitative CFU enumeration. Beyond the technical aspects, I also learned to analyze and interpret experimental data with greater confidence. MDR bacteria represent a serious global threat, and there is an urgent need to identify and test novel drug compounds as potential future antibiotics. This experience underscored the importance of developing new antimicrobial strategies. Even when the data [are] inconclusive and indicate that the tested compounds may not be effective candidates, it is equally valuable to evaluate and discard ineffective molecules in vitro, as this refines the search and directs efforts toward compounds with higher inhibitory potential. By narrowing down the most promising candidates, the research can advance toward testing in models that increasingly resemble human physiological conditions."
Yanwen Hu
Thermal Foot Therapy
"Overall, the project provided extensive experience in thermal analysis, CAD-based design, prototyping, and early-stage experimental evaluation, and highlighted clear engineering pathways for advancing [a] device toward functional clinical or consumer use. [The] RES-MATCH program was a great platform to connect with professor[s] about research opportunities."
Yslam Ismailov
Understanding the Physiological Limits and Health Outcomes of Indoor Heat Extremes and Cold Snap Exposures
"This research project significantly improved my research and analytical skills. The process of synthesizing a large body of scientific literature into a coherent narrative was challenging, yet rewarding. On a personal level, I have already begun incorporating some findings into my daily life, such as reconsidering practices such as frequent cold showers in light of research on the body's response to thermal stress."
Symthasree Koganti
Establishing a Gene Deletion Dual System to Produce Genetic Knockouts of Klebsiella Pneumoniae
"My time within RES-MATCH has been beneficial to both my lab skill set and my interest in research. This project under Professor Tuz’s mentorship provided a deeper look into current research and some methodology within genetic engineering. In addition, it built upon my previous experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis, with training and execution of microbiological and aseptic techniques as well. Working with ligation and biotechnology methods (i.e., PCR) that were covered in classroom material provided me with a conceptual understanding in the context of addressing real-world concerns rather than a purely theoretical one. Beyond classroom material, being present in weekly lab meetings also allowed me to learn about other ongoing lab projects and new research on bacterial antibiotic resistance. As a student pursuing a career in health care, RES-MATCH has been a program that strengthened my interest in genetics and its applications."
Dominique Orbea
"This project provided me with highly valuable learning experience. I was able to gain hands-on experience in primary neuronal culture, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence microscopy imaging, laboratory etiquette, and essential lab skills. I benefited greatly from working under the guidance and expertise of Professor Tuz and developed a deeper understanding and interest in research. This project broadened my understanding of not only the theory of the pertinent biological concepts, but [also] of [how] theoretical principles learned in the classroom translate into experimental procedures in a formal laboratory setting. Overall, the program was very educational and gave me a strong foundation in laboratory practice that deepened my appreciation for the scientific process."
Merub Shaikh
A Human-Centered Design Approach to Safe Ambulation for Individuals with Hemiplegia: A Qualitative Analysis of Design Challenges
"My RES-MATCH experience has been deeply meaningful...The RES-MATCH program provided training in design-oriented qualitative research, emphasizing methodological rigor and empathy-driven inquiry. Through this work, I developed competencies in literature review synthesis, research gap identification, interview protocol design, IRB compliance, and consent-based data collection, strengthening my ability to conduct ethical, human-centered research. I thank Jennifer Shin for mentorship in interview design and guidance through the IRB approval process; Professor Nelson Rosa for continuous guidance, critical feedback, and constructive challenges; Mark Miller for insights on participant interaction and opportunities to observe and refine qualitative interviewing practices; and Kevin Meade for sharing perspectives on disabled communities and advising on disability-centered research framing."
Jiaxin Xie
Persistent Luminescent Nanophosphors for High-Sensitivity Detection of 17β-estradiol
"This research project taught me how each step in nanoparticle synthesis and [silica-COOH-related] surface coating chemistry could affect detection efficiency. I appreciated learning what real research feels like, because it is not only following a fixed protocol similar to the lab lectures in school, but requires critical thinking, independent reading, and flexible approaches. As a biology major getting into this bio-chem project, I realized the importance of interdisciplinary research and how biology and chemistry could potentially [combine] for developing more effective methods. As a first-year student at the beginning of this research journey, I am very grateful for Professor Mao, Yuchen, and everyone in the lab who helped me build up knowledge and supported me throughout this program. Thanks to the RES-MATCH program! To improve, I would hope that the program could be longer so students could continue their projects. There is always more to explore and new questions raised as we continue our projects. In general, I loved the opportunity to work under Professor Mao and enjoyed hearing about other lab members’ projects and their experiences in the research journey."
2020–2025 Testimonials
Prajwal S Venkateshmurthy
Distributed Computation for Light Propagation Modeling
"Participating in RES-MATCH and working with leading researchers from Argonne National Laboratory and professor Dr. Nik Sultana was an invaluable learning experience. The research project provided hands-on software engineering practice including background on distributed science systems, data-intensive computation environments, large-scale storage systems, I/O workloads, & photonics modeling...The flexible structure and coordinator support fostered an excellent research experience for me."
Diana Csercse
"This summer allowed me to not only build my laboratory skills but learn to work with and along a research team. I was able to become skilled in tissue staining, sectioning, and organization of physical and digital work. Gaining hands-on experience in a research lab allowed me to tap into my brain and solve problems on my own and with my colleagues. I am grateful to have been a part of this program as it brought me new skills and wonderful connections. Dr. Wang and her research team made me feel welcome, capable, and responsible daily for my tasks. It goes without saying that RES-MATCH is for everyone who wants to evolve and challenge themselves."
Salih Hodzic
"My RES-MATCH experience working in the lab of Dr. Rong Wang was very rewarding in that it directly bridged the gap between research focused didactic learning and clinical practice in a dental setting. As someone who intends to enter dental school in the near future, being able to contribute to technological advancements in the field of dentistry through knowledge I have gained in class or in the lab was a very eye opening experience. Working in the lab led to a much greater appreciation and holistic understanding of the work that is being done in laboratories so that clinicians can later present it to their patients. Throughout my work in the lab I have grown proficient in operating a Raman microscope, microplate reader, and fluorometer while also learning more about molecular beacons used as a potential method of detection for specific oral pathogens. Being that I also have clinical experience in the dental field, it is very clear to me how the work in this lab can have a direct and immediate impact on patient care in a positive way. With that being said, it is truly an honor to have worked on this project with Dr. Rong Wang and the rest of her lab team."
Anish Ranjan
"Overall, this RES-MATCH research project has provided me with some of the most enlightening times of my academic career in terms of the real-world experience I've obtained from Dr. Khounsary. Additionally, I've learned the fundamental procedures utilized in a research lab and developed my proficiency with a variety of technologies. I think I am better equipped for my forthcoming academic goals and potential career position thanks to the knowledge I have acquired."
Elijah Roberts
"The research work I did through RES-MATCH was a fantastic opportunity. The lab experience I got in additive manufacturing allowed me to learn a lot about the material science field in a hands-on practical project. RES-MATCH led me to continue pursuing research in the material science field and has given me insight into the type of jobs I want to pursue in my professional career."
Thy Tran
"My RES-MATCH experience has been likened to climbing a mountain, which is both difficult and rewarding. I learned a lot from each synthesis failure and acquired valuable knowledge that I couldn’t get in class. Dr. Mao and my mentor, Forough Jahanbazi, did not only teach me how to use the machines along with interpreting data such as luminescence spectra and X-ray diffraction, but they also taught me the theory behind my research and the fundamentals of inorganic chemistry, in which I have very little expertise. Additionally, RES-MATCH helped me overcome my fear of public speaking and increased my self-assurance when conducting research as an undergraduate student. I appreciate being a part of RES-MATCH."
Hieu Trinh
"My project with Dr. Abhinav Bhushan aimed to use data science tools to translate transcriptional data into therapeutic targets for insulin resistance. I have never worked with the programs we used for this project before. However, Dr. Bhushan provided just the right amount of guidance, encouragement, and freedom for me to figure things out on my own. My overall experience was positive, and I would recommend it to anyone interested in research."
Willa Vigneault
"This project gave me first-hand experience working in a research setting and provided me the opportunity to explore more aspects of my major than what I would learn in a traditional academic setting. Everyone involved in the program was very encouraging and attentive, and overall it was an enjoyable experience!"
Umar Zahiruddin
"Participating in RES-MATCH 2022 re-invigorated my love for all the little parts of mechanical engineering, from designing to prototyping to data analysis. The various necessities of working independently in the lab connected me to so many other interesting organizations and really widened my horizons. The program even allowed me to meet so many wonderful and helpful individuals to whom I am very grateful. The experience I have gained here in the program will be indispensable for my career in the future."
Deborah Adesina
"This RES-MATCH project gave me an opportunity to practice what I have learnt in my tissue engineering classes and apply it to the real world. With COVID happening last year, I lost the opportunity to go into the labs physically and being able to do that now made my experience great. This also gave an insight on what research and development departments in biopharma companies do.”
Rediet Adugna
"The purpose of this project is to stimulate primary fibroblast cells that produce increased levels of collagen, which is critical in tissue repair. The goal is to potentially use collagen inducing fibers to aid in tissue regeneration for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) patients. This project gave me an opportunity to enhance my data analysis and research skills. It also gave me a chance to learn how to perform various experiments including Immunostaining, Fibroblast cell seeding, Silk protein extraction and purification. I am grateful for Dr. Rong Wang and the Chemistry Department at Illinois Tech to have held a program that helps students gain more experience in researching fields. I had the opportunity to work with great people and learn from them, and I also contributed towards a better cause which gives me the most meaning out of this researching opportunity. I hope that this program will continue to thrive in the future.”
Gabriel Beutel
“This Res-Match opportunity has been amazing this semester. It has provided me with a chance to get into research during my first year at IIT. I also l earned a lot from this research, from how to find things online to project tracking systems/benefits. This opportunity I also feel has helped me get experience i n what I want to do after college, product development and design.”
Stephanie Brink
“Overall, this was an incredible experience to get more involved with computer science, applied mathematics, and biomedical engineering topics and see an application of how these fields intersect. This is definitely an area that I am interested in pursuing long term and I am grateful for the opportunity to see for myself whether I like machine learning in practice or not.”
Aaron Gregory
“Overall, the hands-on experience I have gained through this RES-MATCH research project has been some of the most educational time that I have spent in my academic career. It has taught me much about the research process and how it is not always clear-cut or simple. I have also become exposed to the basic operations of a research lab and gained experience using a variety of instrumentation. With the knowledge I have obtained, I believe I am better prepared for my future academic and eventual professional career.”
Sadie Meunier
“This was an overall very enjoyable experience! It really gave me a force to get out of the house and actively back to work since the pandemic began. Also, it’s taught me a ton of lab etiquette. I found myself beating myself up when an experiment did not work; but sometimes that’s science and you must go back to try again. A huge thank you for this opportunity, and I look forward to continuing this project thru to completion.”
Muhammad Taha Navaid
“Overall, my experience with the RES-MATCH (Biomedical Science and Engineering) was fruitful and I learned a lot during this semester long research project. It was a means by which I can apply my classroom knowledge to a practical application and try to use the theoretical concepts that I know to improve on an existing idea. This was my very first time conducting proper research and experimentation, on my own, and that my instructor/professor (Dr. Wang) was very helpful during the process in guiding me through this research. I would recommend this program to anyone who is interested in pursuing a side project and want to do something challenging yet rewarding outside of class.”
Khiem Nguyen
“RES-MATCH has been an eye-opening experience for me. Coming in as a Computer Science student and residing halfway around the world, I had many concerns, but Dr. Kawaji and other Lab members from the Magnetic Resonance Technology Discovery Lab (MRTD) helped me push through this whole experience. I feel like this is just the beginning in my journey whether I choose to follow the academic path or go on into the industry.”
Kunj Patel
"All in all, this RESMATCH was about more than just research. It taught me about professionalism in doing lab work and I certainly learned how to use instruments such as the X-ray diffraction machine and how to interpret UV-vis spectra. It relieved my preconceived fear of public speaking and made me more confident in doing research as an undergraduate student. Furthermore, I learned about the mechanisms behind photoluminescence and got to learn about d orbitals. Most importantly, I learned about how the research process works. I used my student independence (along with Dr. Mao’s guidance) to pick literature papers I found interesting and relevant to my research and use the information I learned to propose modifications to my experimental process.”
Kristen Raffanti
“This project pushed me past my comfort zone. Throughout this project I gained a lot of confidence in asking questions and clarifying myself. Because of this, I began taking initiative and felt comfortable making mistakes. I also gained technical experience during this project, I was able to do some 3d modelling and utilize the idea shop for 3d printing. Overall, this project gave me a lot of confidence in myself and excited to do more research work in the future.”
Shelby Kroeger
“I learned a great deal through this project, and I am glad to have been provided with this opportunity.”
Colin Harris
“The RES-MATCH 2021 Spring 2021 program gave me the unique experience to actively contribute to revolutionary research. I worked with Dr. Vaicik on her heart rheology project. The project was fantastic. It allowed me to get a sneak peak into what I want to be doing when I graduate and join the professional world. The project certainly faced its fair share of challenges, but we prevailed as a team and the goals of the project were attained. My specific role in the project was to determine the differences between two processing methods and determine whether or not we could use the faster of the two processing methods and make the project more efficient as a whole. This type of research is crucial for a few reasons. Dr. Vaicik and her team that now includes myself analyze heart tissue in a way that is has never been done before, revolutionizing everything I knew about heart tissue and healthcare as a whole. I feel excited to be doing such research, and contributing to the general knowledge of science and health, because this is the type of feeling that convinced me that I want to become a biomedical engineer.”
Marissa Redington
“I learned a lot from Dr. Kawaji and the MRTD lab graduate students throughout this experience. My fellow undergraduate lab members and I took more of a collaborative approach to our research projects because there was a fair amount of overlap, especially on general research processes. It was astonishing to see how well the knowledge and skills from our different majors merged to work towards a common goal like improving image filtering and data analysis. I learned quickly that debugging code over Zoom is very difficult and time consuming, but this made me appreciate the research process more. I am very grateful that I got to be a part of RES-MATCH, and I can’t wait to continue working with Dr. Kawaji and the rest of the MRTD lab.”
Alex Negron
"I credit my research during the RES-MATCH program for initiating my deep interest in mathematical biology. Since RES-MATCH, I have started a fellowship in Computational Neuroscience at the University of Chicago funded by the Simons Foundation.”