INTRODUCTION

Dr. JiYong Lee joined the University of St. Thomas as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering in Fall 2024. Prior to this, he earned his B.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Mechanical Engineering from YONSEI University in 2014 and 2020, respectively, with his PhD research focusing on 'Implantable Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems for Cardiovascular Diseases'. In Fall 2021, Dr. Lee was awarded a prestigious grant from the Korean Government (KHIDI), which enabled him to join the University of Minnesota as a Visiting Scholar in the department of Mechanical Engineering. He continued his research there as a Postdoctoral Associate until Fall 2024, during which he conducted micro 3D Printing & Neuroscience research on '3D Printed High-density Multifunctional Brain Windows for Simultaneous Optical Imaging and Electrophysiology'.

Dr. Lee's research expertise encompasses 3D Printing, 3D Design & Modeling, Biomedical Devices, Micro/Nano Fabrication and Manufacturing, and Biomaterials. His research areas include 3D Printed Biomedical Devices, Biodegradable Pressure and Motion Sensors, Conductive Silk Fibroin Bioink, Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems, and Multifunctional Brain Windows. Through his work, Dr. Lee is dedicated to advancing the integration of cutting-edge technologies with biomedical applications, contributing to innovative solutions in healthcare.

BIO

Simon Garcia Salmeron studies Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Biomedical Engineering at the University of St. Thomas. As a Davis UWC Scholar, he brings a global perspective and humanitarian focus to his work — emphasizing durable, accessible biomedical solutions. Within the Lee Research Group, he develops porous piezoelectric sensors to measure tissue stiffness, with the broader goal of creating effective diagnostic tools for the early detection of cardiovascular disease.

BIO

Mikayla Gillard is a Mechanical Engineering major with a minor in Sustainability at the University of St. Thomas. She is a member of the Aquinas Honors Program and is involved in several organizations including the Swing Dance Club, ASME, SWE, and the Biomedical Engineering Club. Through her work with the Lee research group, Mikayla received the University of St. Thomas UROP Collaborative Research Grant for Spring 2026. Her academic focus in mechanical engineering, combined with her interests in biomedical and materials science, aligns closely with her goal of contributing to innovative healthcare technologies that enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.

BIO

Layne Kology is a Mechanical Engineering major at the University of St. Thomas. He began his studies at St. Thomas in 2024 after transferring from Lewis University. Outside of the classroom, Layne is a two-time captain of the men’s lacrosse team, where he has developed strong leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. His passion for sustainable, human-first engineering solutions has led him to explore how mechanical design and biomedical technology can improve people’s quality of life. With a growing interest in materials, product design, and medical device innovation, Layne hopes to contribute to engineering solutions that are practical, reliable, and centered around the needs of the people they serve.

BIO

Logan Kozlowski began studying Mechanical Engineering at the University of St. Thomas in 2023, with a minor in Biomedical Engineering. As a committee chair of the UST Biomedical Engineering Club, he shares his passion for medical technology with others. Beyond his coursework, he has explored the applications of virtual reality in mechanical engineering, simulating real-world dynamics for engineering analysis. With a strong interest in biomaterials, he aims to contribute to the medical device industry by developing advanced, patient-centered solutions that drive innovation in healthcare.

BIO

Cora Schuller began her studies at the University of St. Thomas in 2025 with a major in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Biomedical Engineering. She is a member of the Aquinas Honors Program. Cora is enthusiastic about biomechanics and its applications in understanding and improving human movement. By combining mechanical and biomedical engineering principles, she hopes to contribute to technologies that enhance mobility and quality of life.

BIO

Adam Tauer is a senior student studying Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Physics at the University of St. Thomas, where he is a Dean’s List student and a member of the Division I Men’s Basketball team. He brings hands-on technical experience, and has a background in CAD, simulation, and engineering programming. Adam is drawn to the intersection of mechanical design and biomedical innovation, and aims to contribute to solutions that have real-world impact in healthcare.