TEAM
Principal Investigator
Elham (Emma) Davoodi, PhD
Assistant Professor
Mechanical Engineering Department
University of Utah
Education
- PostDoc, California Institute of Technology (2021-2025)
- PhD, University of Waterloo (2017-2021)
- MASc, Texas Tech University (2015-2017)
- BSc, Shahid Rajaee University (2010-2014)
Email: e.davoodi@utah.edu
Graduate Students
Neda Khatami
Neda Khatami is a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Utah. She earned her M.S. in Materials Engineering from Iran University of Science and Technology. Her research background centers on enhancing the structural and functional properties of biomaterials for medical applications. Her interests include additive manufacturing of medical implants, biocompatibility of biomaterials in surgical tools, and developing biomaterials for cancer therapy and related medical applications.
Xu Ouyang
Xu Ouyang is a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Utah. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and earned his M.S. in Materials Science from the University of Southern California. His research interests focus on smart materials and advanced manufacturing, with an emphasis on 3D printing for biomedical and engineering applications. He is particularly interested in how material properties and external stimuli, such as ultrasound, can be integrated to create responsive and functional systems.
Undergraduate Students
Jonathan Snell
Jonathan is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at the University of Utah. He is looking to go to medical school and wants to help improve quality of life. His interest in treatment options is always growing with his love to learn.
Petros Flagg
Petros holds Associate degrees in Computer Science and Biology from Northern Virginia Community College, and is currently pursuing a Computer Science degree with a minor in Biology at the University of Utah. Hailing from the Washington DC Metro Area, Petros has previously interned at both the US Patent and Trademark Office and the Bermuda Institute for Ocean Science. His research interests are focused on the integration of artificial intelligence into biological research and the advancement of research software tools, integrated multi-tissue/organ system topology, and tissue printing slicing APIs.
Nicole Payne
Nicole is a third-year undergraduate student studying Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Utah. Her academic interests focus on the development of advanced biomaterials aimed at improving surgical efficacy and patient outcomes. Beyond her studies, she is engaged in community service and enjoys running, playing piano, and painting. Nicole’s work is guided by the vision of tailoring implantable materials to meet the evolving challenges of modern medicine.
Selena Pham
Selena is an undergraduate student in Materials Science and Engineering with an emphasis in Biomedical Materials at the University of Utah. With a background in design and manufacturing, Selena hopes to bridge the gaps amongst the interdisciplinary fields. Selena’s research interests include the bioprinting of soft materials and application of hydrogels for wound healing. Outside of lab, Selena enjoys rock climbing, sewing, and playing piano.
Kate Southwick
Kate is a third year undergraduate student pursuing an Honors BS in Biomedical Engineering, and is passionate about using technology to improve health outcomes. Her interests lie at the intersection of engineering, medicine, and human-centered design, with a focus on creating tools that are both innovative and accessible. Outside of academics, Kate enjoys skiing, mountain biking, and spending time outdoors.
Davoodi Lab 