September 2024: Siyu He

Education

PhD, BME, 2023, Columbia

Where are you from?

China

What drew you to the field of Biomedical Engineering?

My journey into Biomedical Engineering began with my major in physics college, where I developed a deep interest in applying the simplicity of physical principles to the complexities of biological systems. This curiosity naturally extended into a desire to contribute to healthcare. Biomedical engineering, at the intersection of biology, data science, engineering, and medicine, offers a unique perspective for understanding nature and leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes. The field’s interdisciplinary nature, requiring knowledge across various domains and collaboration with professionals such as biologists, data scientists, doctors, engineers, is particularly appealing. The need to integrate diverse fields is intellectually stimulating, as interdisciplinary research continually advances our way of thinking. This blend of life sciences and problem-solving aligns perfectly with my passions, making Biomedical Engineering an ideal fit for my career aspirations.

What is your current role?

I am currently continuing my academic training as a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University. During this postdoc training, I am focused on strengthening my skills in computational modeling at the intersection of tissue engineering and cancer immunology, as well as in the statistical modeling of biology systems that I developed during my PhD. I am also extending my expertise by developing advanced machine learning models to better understand disease mechanism, predict cellular behaviors, and explore therapeutic interventions. My aim is not only to contribute innovative solutions to complex biomedical challenges but also push the boundaries of current research methodologies. In addition to my technical work, I am dedicated to building my leadership in biomedicine and healthcare, with the goal of guiding future research and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting the next generation of researchers.

Why did you choose Columbia BME?

I chose Columbia BME because of its outstanding reputation and the excellent research community it fosters. Columbia BME is a global leader in biomedical research, offering comprehensive training programs designed to equip students with the skills needed to tackle the most pressing challenges in the field. The opportunity to work with work-class faculty on cutting-edge projects, access to top-tier research resources, and a stimulating environment makes it an ideal setting for interdisciplinary research. Moreover, Columbia BME is more than just an academic institution; it’s a place where connections and friendship are formed through many departmental events and activities. These experiences have created lasting memories and provided a support network that goes beyond professional development. The mentorship I received from my PhD advisors was invaluable, guiding both my research and career development. This strong support system made Columbia BME an exceptional environment for both personal and academic growth.

What were some of your favorite projects/memories from the program?
Some of my favorite memories from the Columbia BME program revolve around the department's welcoming and relaxed culture. I truly enjoyed the various social events, such as the welcome party, annual retreat, and the monthly or weekly gatherings hosted by goBME, especially at the beginning and end of each semester. These events provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with peers and faculty in a more informal setting, fostering a strong sense of community within the department. Another highlight was the weekly seminar series, where the department regularly invited top-tier scientists to share their groundbreaking work, which provided opportunities to engage with leading experts in the field. One of the most remarkable aspects of Columbia BME is its consistent sharing of opportunities in both industry and academia on a regular basis. This daily exposure to diverse career paths definitely benefits students by providing more opportunities and helping them build a solid foundation for their career development. Additionally, working closely with my PhD advisors was a truly memorable and impactful part of my experience. The one-on-one discussions and collaborative projects with my advisors gave me a deeper understanding of my field and built my confidence as a researcher.

What was your proudest moment at Columbia?
My proudest moment at Columbia was when my paper was accepted for publication. It was the culmination of years of hard work, and seeing our research recognized by the academic community was incredibly rewarding.

How has your experience with Columbia BME contributed towards your goals?
Columbia BME has equipped me with the expertise and confidence needed to pursue my goals as an interdisciplinary researcher in biomedicine. The program has opened doors to numerous opportunities, allowing me to see beyond just publishing papers to making a real impact in the world through biomedical applications. My advisors have had an invaluable influence on shaping my academic goals, guiding me in blending basic science with applied fields. These experiences have helped me maintain my passion for science and contributing significantly to healthcare advancements.

What are your thoughts on the strength of Columbia BME's alumni network and how has that influenced your career path?
Columbia BME’s alumni network is incredibly strong and has greatly influenced my career. The network offers valuable platform for mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth. Connecting with alumni both in academia and industry has provided me insights into various career paths and shaped my decisions.

Any words of wisdom or tips for prospective BME students?
I would encourage prospective BME students to embrace the challenging and interdisciplinary nature of the field and stay passionate even when faces failures.

What are you excited about?
I’m excited about the immense potential in the fields of biomedicine. The combination of artificial intelligence and biomedical engineering is set to drive revolutionary technological advancements. This is an incredibly exciting moment to harness these opportunities and accelerate innovation in biomedicine.