About Me
Hi, I'm Sophia Liao, a senior at Leland High School and a student researcher at Loyola University Chicago and The Ohio State University.
I have experience in biomedical engineering and immunology research from working in both labs, and I'm interested in exploring the intersection of these fields to drive innovation in healthcare. Currently, I'm exploring the potential of using microcontroller-based systems for medical diagnostics.
When I'm not in the lab, you can find me debating with others, tutoring students in Chinese, or exploring new trails around the San Francisco Bay Area.
Biomedical Engineering Research
Student Researcher @ Chen Lab
- IEEE International Electro/Information Technology (EIT) Conference 3rd place overall paper winner
- I built an Arduino Electrocardiogram aquisition device, where I created a low-cost Arduino system measuring heart rate variability. To ensure accuracy, I used Root Mean Square of Successive Differences (RMSSD) as a metric, which led me to explore the potential of using Arduino-based systems for medical diagnostics. I presented my work alongside the Chen Lab at the IEEE EIT conference under the Engineering Education technical session.
- From my experience in the lab, I learned Arduino programming, PCB design using Autodesk Fusion, and Adobe illustrator skills. Outside of researching, I also illustrated scientific figures included on posters published by Loyola University Chicago.
Immunology Research
Student Researcher @ Huang Lab
- I worked as a lab assistant at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, where I assisted in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis experiments. I was able to analyze tumors through these techniques to see how the mice responded to treatment.
- At the lab, I was able to get hands-on experience with handling mice and dissecting them to collect 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.
- Outside of handling lab animals, I also assisted in various laboratory procedures, such as sterilizing equipment, data collection, and organizing lab supplies.
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, as the only public school in the South Bay Area to compete in my debate event.
- I qualified to the 2026 California State Tournament, where I placed as a State Octofinalist. I also qualified to the 2026 National Speech and Debate Tournament, where I placed in the top 50.
- 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 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!