What is your project about and what is your role as a researcher?
I joined a group of graduate students who are aiming at enhancing aerosol drug delivery systems, mainly for pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDI), commonly known as asthma inhalers. My role was to investigate deposition of salbutamol sulphate inside a cylindrical asthma spacer device and the extrathoracic airways. This was accomplished using experimental analysis using a spacer replica as well as Computational Fluid Dynamic techniques.
How does it relate to your course work?
As my field of study is Biomedical and Mechanical engineering, the concepts and procedures I used to successfully complete this research project were directly related to my academic curriculum. It required the application of previously acquired knowledge of biological, chemical and engineering concepts while developing new skills.
What have you gained from the experience?
This research project has resulted in developing my analytical skills, my abilities to complete independent research and has given me invaluable experience, similar to that of a Master’s student. I have also had the opportunity to gain considerable numerical analysis experience using ANSYS CFX.
What would you tell future students considering participating in I-CUREUS?
I would tell future students to take any chance they get to apply for I-CUREUS. This project has given me the opportunity to meet wonderful people and has offered me invaluable experience. I-CUREUS is an opportunity to explore your interests and to gain experience in the real world with authentic challenges. I’d like to thank Dr. Edgar Matida for the mentoring and Nick Ogrodnik for all his help during the past year.
Victor Azzi