About Me
Hi, I'm Sophia Liao, a senior at Leland High School interested in how engineering can make medicine more accessible.
I'm a biomedical engineering researcher at Loyola University Chicago and worked as an immunology researcher at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. Currently, I'm exploring the potential of using microcontroller-based systems for medical diagnostics.
Biomedical Engineering Research
Student Researcher @ Chen Lab
- I built an Arduino Electrocardiogram acquisition device, where I created a low-cost Arduino system measuring heart rate variability.
- I'm proficient in Arduino programming, PCB design using Autodesk Fusion, and Adobe illustrator skills. I also illustrated scientific figures included on the lab's research posters.
- Outside of biomedical engineering, I also collaborated with the Yu Lab at the Life Sciences Department focusing on Neuroscience, where I collected mouse embryo and brain tissue samples for tinnitus research purposes.
2026 IEEE International Electro/Information Technology (EIT) Conference
At the IEEE International Electro/Information Technology (EIT) Conference, I presented my research on a low-cost, Arduino-based electrocardiogram (ECG) acquisition device developed with the Chen Lab at Loyola University Chicago. The system validates the microcontroller's ability to measures heart rate variability using the Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD) as a metric, demonstrating how accessible microcontroller-based systems can be applied to medical diagnostics and engineering education.
My work was recognized with the 3rd place overall paper award out of 105 published conference papers and 200+ submissions. Presenting at EIT gave me the opportunity to share my research with the broader engineering community, receive feedback from experts in the field, and connect with other researchers exploring the intersection of engineering and healthcare.
Read my paper: Validation of RMSSD-Based HRV Measurement Using an Open-Source Microcontroller Platform
Immunology Research
Student Researcher @ Huang Lab
- I worked as a lab assistant at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, where I assisted in research on how environmental signals reprogram immune cells to treat cancer, where I focused on pancreatic and ovarian cancer.
- At the lab, I was able to get hands-on experience with handling mice and collecting ear and bone marrow samples for genotyping.
- I maintained mouse colonies through daily husbandry including feeding, monitoring health, assisting with breeding, and humane euthanasia in accordance with institutional protocols.
- I'm proficient in various lab techniques, including Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, and sterilizing equipment.
Beyond the Lab
Policy Debate
- As the captain of my school's policy debate team, I led my team to compete at various regional and national competitions.
- I qualified to the 2026 California State Tournament, where I placed 9th. I also qualified to the 2026 National Speech and Debate Tournament, where I placed 47th.
- In preparation for competitions, I guide my team through debate strategy, create and teach lesson plans, and customize materials for 20+ members of my team. My favorite part of debate is the discussion and collaboration that comes with it.
Exploring
- I frequently hike in the Redwood forests and around Half Moon Bay. My favorite trail near me is the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park due to its accessibility; I love hiking with my relatives to catch up and enjoy the scenery.
- I'm open to recommendations for new trails or destinations, especially if they're in the Bay Area! I also want to explore trails in other regions. Hiking in the Pacific Northwest is on my bucket list.