Shreya Ramanan

Project

Nanoprecipitation formulation of bacterial cellulose nanoparticles for sustainable drug delivery

Bacterial cellulose nanoparticles (BCNPs) have shown potential as a sustainable nanomedicine platform for drug delivery. The formulation of BCNPs leverages green engineering and provides a biodegradable, thermally stable, reproducible alternative to their synthetic counterparts. We have worked develop a small library of BCNPs with different chemical moieties to incorporate various active agents to be used for targeted and tunable drug delivery.

What I learned

Research has been one of the most meaningful and defining parts of my college experience. It’s allowed me to apply what I learn in class in a hands-on way, gain valuable lab skills, and understand the full process of developing a drug delivery system—from formulation and characterization to testing in biological models. I’ve also had the opportunity to present my work at conferences and grow as a scientific communicator. The Mary Gates Research Scholarship has further enriched this experience by helping me connect with other student researchers, gain exposure to new opportunities, and become part of an inspiring research community. Most importantly, being in a lab environment where I can ask questions, explore ideas, and learn from those around me has not only strengthened my technical abilities but also fostered my confidence, curiosity, and long-term passion for research.

Advice for future applicants

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