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Mechatronic Systems Engineering master's student in the

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I’m currently a Mechatronic Systems Engineering (MSE) Master’s student in the NeuroSpine Lab. Having finished my undergrad in MSE at SFU, I had the valuable opportunity to work in the NeuroSpine Lab as a co-op student, where I further developed my passion for research and found fulfillment in applying my biomechatronic engineering skills to help people directly by working closely with them.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

SFU provides countless programs to help foster the growth and development of academic researchers. Furthermore, the opportunities the NeuroSpine Lab provides with a fascinating project are hard to pass on when considering my career development.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

I’m working on a system that helps researchers study spinal cord injuries. I’m also working on simulations to help better understand how the spine moves and gets injured. Together, this makes it easier for researchers like surgeons and lab technicians to develop a potential cure for spinal cord injury.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Spinal Cord Injury, Biomechatronics, Robotics

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

Recently competing and winning in the Faculty of Applied Science’s 3 Minute Thesis competition has highlighted to me the significance of effective communication. This award represents the culmination of numerous opportunities for me to present my work and engage actively with various audiences. This experience further developed my public speaking and scientific communication skills, which are essential for my future endeavors, whether in academia or industry.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I’m incredibly grateful to have received the NSERC – CGSM to support my research. I also received the BC Graduate Scholarship, Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship, and Graduate Fellowship. These awards allow me to focus on my thesis and work on becoming an effective engineering researcher.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned along my journey as a graduate student is that, first and foremost, we’re still students and that learning is a continued part of our lives. This active learning makes every day exciting, and I hope this learning continues past my graduate studies.

How do you approach networking and building connections in and outside of your academic community?

I approach networking by coming from a place of curiosity. I’ve always been eager to learn and hear other people’s stories. It’s always interesting to listen to people talk about things they’re passionate about and find connections, whether inside or outside academia.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

My main tip for balancing academic and personal life is setting your boundaries, and these boundaries could mean different things for everyone. Another tip I would give is to develop a meaningful academic and personal support system to help get through more challenging, stressful periods.

If you could dedicate your research to anyone (past, present and/or future), who would that be and why?

I want to dedicate my research to my grandparents, Eliseo and Mercedes, who passed away due to complications related to spinal cord injuries and falls. I hope this work contributes to the development of effective treatments.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Reflecting on the highlights of my graduate studies, I truly appreciate the experiences that allowed me to engage with other students and the broader university community. Competing in the 3 Minute Thesis and FAS Speak Out competitions has helped me connect with fellow graduate students, discover their fascinating work, and build friendships along the way.

Contact Dexter:dzamora@sfu.ca

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