Issuu

iBioMed Annual Report 2024 - 2025

Table of contents Introduction

A message from the Co-Directors

Year in review (2024-2025)

People of iBioMed

Ways we can work together

Alumni to watch

McMaster University | 03

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

What happens when two of the most reputable Faculties in Canada combine forces? You get a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind program: Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences (iBioMed) at McMaster University. Launched in 2017, iBioMed is redefining interdisciplinary education by merging the strengths of engineering and health sciences into a transformative academic experience that prepares students to tackle real-world health challenges through innovation and collaboration. Our students complete a common first year before choosing to pursue one of nine programs in Biomedical Engineering (BEngBME) or Health, Engineering Science & Entrepreneurship (Honours BHSc).

By the numbers (2024-25)

859

1,424

across five years of the program

(Fall 2024 intake)

women-identifying students in the program

~500

329

working in various industries across the world

by Fall 2024 incoming cohort

24% of total iBioMed undergraduates

students

alumni

applications for first-year seats

countries represented

~57%

iBioMed students on co-op

McMaster University | 04

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

A message from iBioMed’s Co-Directors We are proud to present this year’s annual report – a reflection of the innovation and growth that continue to define the iBioMed program at McMaster University. What began as a bold vision – to create a truly interdisciplinary program that bridges engineering and health sciences – has evolved into a vibrant academic community shaping the future of healthcare innovation. Today, our graduates are making a measurable impact not only across Canada, but around the world. They are leading research initiatives, launching startups, contributing to clinical advancements and driving technological innovation in healthcare. Their work is improving lives and reinforcing Canada’s position as a global leader in biomedical excellence.

bridge engineering and health sciences has never been greater. The iBioMed program is uniquely positioned to meet this need; building up talent that is not only technically proficient but also deeply attuned to the human impact of their work. We are grateful for the continued support of our partners and community. From first year onward, our students have benefited from working with domain experts and clients on design projects, culminating in final-year experiences with Innovator in Scrubs clinical stakeholders and Capstone industry partners. Your investment in our students and our mission ensures that Canada remains at the forefront of biomedical innovation. Together, we are building a future where technology and compassion intersect to improve lives.

As Canada stands at a pivotal moment in the evolution of its biomedical sector, the demand for sustainable healthcare solutions and skilled professionals who can

Dr. Michelle MacDonald & Dr. Colin McDonald Co-Directors of iBioMed

McMaster University | 05

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

A heavyweight honour

Starting strong

Lianna Genovese, a 2022 graduate of

173 first-year students start classes

iBioMed students in the Health,

McMaster’s Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering (iBioMed) program, is recognized with a prestigious Muhammad Ali

on campus for the program’s eighth year since it launched. iBioMed remains a highly

Engineering Science & Entrepreneurship program participate in Innovators in Scrubs – a hands-on learning opportunity that

Humanitarian Award for her commitment to enhancing the

competitive, fully subscribed program with a growing

partners students with clinical teams in Hamilton and Burlington. Together,

quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

international student cohort, representing China, India, Iran, Korea, Sri Lanka, South Africa and Türkiye, among other countries.

they work to identify healthcare challenges and develop solutions that focus on user-centred and iterative design.

Lianna is the founder of Imaginable Solutions, a social impact company dedicated to developing assistive

Innovators in Scrubs

Incoming students participate in a

2024 Innovators in Scrubs students

technologies. Its flagship product, Guided Hands®, was invented by Lianna during her time at McMaster. This innovative device empowers individuals with limited fine motor

common first year, which includes the Health Solutions Design Projects I: Introduction to Engineering Fundamentals and Design course. Students work on a series of

worked alongside medical staff in neurosurgery, vascular surgery, interventional radiology, anaesthesiology, and spine and joint medicine.

skills to write, paint, draw, and interact with technology; restoring

integrated team-based design projects in simulated healthcare

independence and creativity for users around the world.

environments.

Learn more about Lianna’s award win alongside fellow honouree Shaquille O’Neil.

McMaster University | 06

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

NOVEMBER

An I.D.E.A.L. iBioMed student

JANUARY

An exercise in verification

FEBRUARY

First-year student Carter Yott is named the inaugural recipient of Bio

To kick off the winter term, thirdyear students in the 3P04

At an evening showcase, first-year students display devices they’ve

Talent Canada’s $10,000 I.D.E.A.L. scholarship.

Verification Labs are introduced to the principles of design verification

designed to automate tasks of their own choosing — identifying both the

Carter is passionate about biomedical innovation and committed to creating accessible

through an immersive design studio. They verify that medical devices function as expected by developing protocols for testing

challenge and the demographic it impacts. Their goal is to develop a prototype that demonstrates both the form and function of their design.

technologies. His journey includes embracing his Indigenous heritage,

various devices, including flow meters for IV therapy and

advocating for LGBTQ2SIA+ communities and mentoring youth – especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Through his academic pursuits and community involvement, Carter is

consumer-grade electrocardiograms.

shaping a more inclusive future in STEM and inspiring others to embrace their identities and lead with purpose. Learn more about why Yott is a worthy recipient.

AUGUST 2024 TO APRIL 2025

Year in review (2024-2025) McMaster University | 07

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

MARCH

APRIL

March break-ing into the iBioMed experience

From “Bench to Market”

iBioMed students mentor Grade 10s from Blakelock High School as part of

During March Break, more than 90 prospective students participated

First-year student teams pitch their healthcare innovation projects in a

the Halton District School Board’s ISTEM program. Participants worked

in an immersive experience on campus. They engaged in hands-

Dragons’ Den-style competition. As part of the Bench to Market 1EP6

on human-centred design start-up projects, visited McMaster’s campus to refine their elevator pitches and gain insights from upper-year

on activities in the iBioMed Design Studio, attended lectures, toured facilities including the Wet Lab and Hatch Build Space, and tackled

course that blends biology, clinical insight and entrepreneurship, students develop skills in critical thinking, teamwork and market

iBioMed students specializing in entrepreneurship.

challenges involving circuitry and remote-controlled race cars. The

awareness. Projects included athome diagnostic tools and predictive

event offered a glimpse into university life, fostering connections among high school students and sparking excitement for future studies in engineering and biomedical innovation.

models for neurological diseases.

Mentoring future students

Learn more about the course.

McMaster University | 08

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

APRIL

Showcasing standout projects

Making waves with Wonder Guard

Varsity athlete and advocate earns recognition

At the annual Final Showcase, select iBioMed students across each year of

Manak Bajaj, a Health, Engineering Science and Entrepreneurship

Sarah Cushnie, a fifth-year Materials and Biomedical Engineering iBioMed

iBioMed grad and current PhD student in biomedical engineering

student and varsity athlete, is presented with McMaster University’s

at McMaster University wins the national 2025 Arena Pitch Competition for his invention: Wonder Guard. Manak designed

Les Prince Award for Community Service. Sarah is president of the McMaster Rowing Club and vicepresident of events for the

the device using electrochemical biosensors to rapidly identify UTI-

LGBTQ2SIA+ Athletic Advocacy Group, organizing initiatives that foster safe

causing bacteria. His innovation addresses a critical healthcare need, as UTIs account for a significant portion of hospitalacquired infections.

spaces for queer athletes. Read more about Sarah’s achievements.

study present their coursework and culminating projects to an audience of peers, faculty, staff, alumni and community members.

Learn more about Wonder Guard.

AUGUST 2024 TO APRIL 2025

Year in review (2024-2025) McMaster University | 09

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

MAY

A vision for change

JUNE

Marking a milestone

JULY

A day of empowerment

Kobe Li, a first year iBioMed student from Vancouver, is awarded the Terry

130 iBioMed students cross the Convocation stage as part of the

Design Like a Girl hosted by the iBioMed program, brings together

Fox Humanitarian Award for his outstanding commitment to

program’s fourth graduating class.

women-identifying high school students for a full day of hands-on

community service and leadership. Driven by a passion for equity and inclusion, Kobe has led initiatives like 20/20 Mission that delivers

At the iBioMed Graduation Awards reception, five exceptional students were honoured with awards. Ansh Kuckreja and Sarah

STEM exploration. Participants engaged in activities ranging from circuitry and Python programming to solving real-world healthcare

eyeglasses to communities in need in Guatemala.

Arnold received the Leadership Award for their outstanding

challenges. They also spoke with iBioMed grad and YWCA Women of

achievements in leadership, Wanqi Chen and Nicolette Christodoulakis received the Community Impact Award for contributions to the community, and Deena Al-Sammak received

Distinction Award Winner, Shayna Earle.

the Innovation Award for demonstrating excellence in innovation and entrepreneurship.

wearable device for visually impaired individuals.

Learn more about Kobe’s achievements.

The event culminated in a design showcase where the winning team, Echolens, presented an AI-powered

McMaster University | 10

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

JULY

IBET Momentum Fellowship supports iBioMed grad continue research

Jenna Harris, an Engineering Physics and Biomedical Engineering iBioMed grad and current PhD student in McMaster’s School of Biomedical Engineering, is awarded the IBET Momentum Fellowship. The award will support her research on electrochemical biosensors – devices that enable early disease detection without centralized labs. Supervised by Dr. Leyla Soleymani, Jenna aims to make diagnostics more accessible. Learn more about Jenna and the IBET Fellowship.

MARCH 2024 TO APRIL 2025

Year in review (2024-2025) McMaster University | 11

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

STUDENT

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

Elijah Cosby

Sanna Tayabali

Elijah Cosby, a Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering iBioMed

Sanna Tayabali, an Electrical and Biomedical Engineering iBioMed

Leela Pilli, a Laboratory Technician and one of the longest-serving staff

student, is making an impact in accessibility through his award-

student, has carved a unique path toward clinical engineering

members in the iBioMed program, plays a vital role in maintaining and

winning invention: the Ultrasonic Visual Assistance Device (U-VAD). Inspired by a visually impaired family friend, Elijah designed U-VAD to help

through a series of co-op placements in Silicon Valley. Starting with mechanical design work at Surgalign, she discovered

managing key learning spaces such as the Medical Instrumentation & Imaging Lab and Biomaterials & Robotics Lab. With a Master of

users navigate unfamiliar environments using ultrasonic

a passion for bridging engineering and medicine, leading her to roles

Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, Pilli brings a deep

sensors and auditory feedback. Compact and cost-effective, the device uses echolocation-like technology to detect obstacles and communicate spatial information clearly. Elijah credits first-year

at startups like Petal and industry giants such as Intuitive and Johnson & Johnson’s MedTech division. Sanna’s work focuses on surgical robotics and translating clinical needs into engineering

passion for assistive technologies to his work, often designing mechanical components and assemblies that support student innovation. His dedication and impact are felt by students, with one

iBioMed design courses for helping refine the device, making it smaller and more affordable with each prototype.

solutions, highlighting her drive to improve patient outcomes and support surgeons through innovative technologies.

group naming their Life-Emulating Emotion Linked Assistant (the LEELA) to monitor stress-related changes in vital signs, in his honour.

Leela Pilli

Get the full story.

People of iBioMed

McMaster University | 12

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

Dr. Fei Geng

PROFESSOR

Dr. Michael Noseworthy

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Dr. Fei Geng is an Associate Professor at McMaster University's W Booth

Dr. Michael Noseworthy is a Professor in Electrical & Computer Engineering

Dr. Kyla Sask is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Materials Science

School of Engineering Practice and Technology, with Associate Member

and an Associate Member in the School of Biomedical Engineering at

and Engineering at McMaster University and an Associate Member of both the

appointments in Mechanical Engineering and the School of Biomedical Engineering. His expertise spans biotechnology, cancer biology,

McMaster University, specializing in School of Biomedical Engineering and advanced medical imaging. His the Department of Pathology & research focuses on assessing tissue Molecular Medicine. Her research microstructure and metabolism using focuses on biomaterials, particularly the

biochemistry and cell biology. He teaches courses in molecular biology,

MRI and in vivo NMR spectroscopy, with recent work integrating

interactions between proteins, cells and material surfaces in blood-contacting

immunology, virology and genomics, and has industry experience in pharmaceutical compliance and protein drug development.

multimodal techniques such as EEG, EMG and ultrasound to develop more comprehensive diagnostic protocols.

medical devices. She employs advanced techniques in nanotechnology, surface modification, 3D printing and microfluidics to improve polymeric materials, with a special interest in pediatric applications.

Dr. Kyla Sask

Originally trained in clinical medicine

With a background in medical biophysics and imaging, Dr.

in China, Dr. Geng shifted to cancer research, earning a master’s degree in biochemistry and later a PhD at McMaster, where he discovered a novel breast cancer cell death

Noseworthy has held key roles including Co-Director of the McMaster Dr. Sask’s work has broad implications School of Biomedical Engineering for tissue engineering, drug delivery, (2010–2020) and Director of Medical biosensing and more. Her background Imaging Physics at St. Joseph’s includes a PhD from McMaster,

pathway. He is a member of the American Society of Cell Biology and

Healthcare. In 2024, he was named a postdoctoral research at Queen’s Distinguished Fellow Adjunct Professor University and industry experience at

the American Association of Cancer Research.

at Mohawk College.

Interface Biologics Inc., where she contributed to technologies like Endexo™ and Epidel™.

McMaster University | 13

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

CONTRIBUTING CLINICIAN

Dr. Gordon Yip

Dr. Gordon Yip is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medical Imaging at McMaster University and a practicing interventional radiologist with a strong passion for innovation in clinical practice. Since the inception of the iBioMed program in 2017, he has played a key role in student mentorship, serving as a mentor in the first-year IBEHS 1P10 course, a guest speaker in entrepreneurship classes and a clinical preceptor in the fourth-year Innovators in Scrubs course. His ongoing involvement bridges clinical insight with biomedical education, inspiring students to tackle real-world healthcare challenges.

People of iBioMed

McMaster University | 14

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

iBioMed + industry = innovation Our students and faculty approach real-world challenges through both technical and entrepreneurial lenses, generating meaningful solutions that span semester-long design sprints, full-year capstone projects, collaborative research and start-up ventures.

Whether you’re part of industry, healthcare, academia or an emerging start-up, partnering with iBioMed provides access to dynamic teams, state-of-the-art facilities and a culture of innovation that drives progress in healthcare and beyond.

Ways we can work together: Sponsor a Capstone design project (September to April) Collaborate with a team of final-year, interdisciplinary biomedical engineering students on year-long design projects that tackle real-world challenges, with deliverables including prototypes, feasibility studies and technical reports.

Check out past Capstone projects

Supervise a research or Thesis project Support a research project over one or two terms, or a year-long Thesis project that can be research-focused or venture-driven.

Join Innovators in Scrubs (September to April) Partner with upper-year students trained in biomedical innovation as they identify unmet clinical needs through observation and engagement. Guide them in shaping early-stage solutions – from devices to digital tools – while contributing to mentorship, innovation and improved patient care.

More engagement opportunities: Guest lecturing Leading a workshop Supervising a co-op student. Connect with the Centre for Career Growth and Experience team for more details about posting a job Philanthropy through support of our students and their innovations Sponsoring a hackathon Joining an advisory group

Fill out our iBioMed project sourcing form

McMaster University | 15

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

PURSUING GRAD STUDIES

Julia Ungureanu ‘24

WORKING IN HEALTHCARE

Laila Aggag ‘21,

WORKING AS AN ENTREPRENEUR

Albert Wang ’22

Health, Engineering Science & Entrepreneurship iBioMed

Julia is continuing her academic

Laila has carved out a meaningful

Albert Wang is the co-founder of

journey at McMaster University, where she is enrolled in the MBA program. Her graduate studies build on her entrepreneurial success as co-

career as a psychotherapist, specializing in trauma-informed care. Her practice spans both Canada and Egypt, allowing her to

Comend, a technology platform designed to empower patient advocacy groups working in the rare disease space. Recognizing the

founder of Cloak the Poke, a startup that reimagines the pediatric

support clients across cultures and contexts. Laila’s work emphasizes

pivotal role these groups play in driving research and innovation,

vaccination experience through playful distraction tools. The venture gained recognition for its innovative approach to easing children's anxiety during medical procedure. Julia’s transition from engineering to

empathy, resilience and culturally sensitive approaches to healing, particularly for individuals navigating complex emotional experiences. Her journey from engineering to mental health advocacy showcases the

Comend provides tools to help them organize, fund and accelerate drug development programs. Albert’s vision is to reduce the risks associated with new treatments by strengthening the infrastructure

business reflects her commitment to scaling impact-driven solutions and deepening her leadership in health innovation.

diverse paths alumni can take to make a difference in people’s lives, especially in areas where compassionate care is most needed.

around patient-led initiatives, exemplifying how engineering and entrepreneurship can intersect to create meaningful change in healthcare systems.

Learn more about Cloak the Poke.

Learn more about Laila in her own words.

Check out Comend’s website.

McMaster University | 16

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

NEW GRAD TO WATCH

Sarah Arnold ‘25

Kansas Mackay ’25,

Chemical and Biomedical Engineering iBioMed

Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering iBioMed

During the iBioMed program, Sarah was heavily involved in research experiences and

Building off an active undergrad in iBioMed as a repeat teaching assistant, Varsity track

served as Co-President of the McMaster Society for Engineering Research. She spent

athlete, Medical Engineering Design Team member and completing a co-op at

two co-op terms with the Latulippe Lab involved in projects relating to prototyping, 3D-printing and bioprocessing.

Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Kansas pursued the pathway to a Biomedical Engineering PhD at McMaster. Her research focus is in applications of real-

Sarah’s research interests took her to Switzerland where she worked at Ecole

time nanoscale visualization techniques such as liquid transmission electron

polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne as part of the Sustainable Materials Lab. She is now a PhD candidate in Bioengineering at Stanford University.

microscopy.

Learn more about Sarah’s research experience in Switzerland.

Alumni to watch

Graduates of the iBioMed program are equipped to thrive across a wide range of fields. From advancing into graduate studies — including medicine, business and research—to launching innovative startups and shaping the future of biomedical engineering, our alumni are making meaningful contributions. With a strong foundation in interdisciplinary problem-solving, iBioMed grads are prepared to tackle the most pressing challenges in healthcare and beyond.

McMaster University | 17

iBioMed Annual Report 2024-2025

We want to hear from you Whether you’re interested in attending iBioMed as a student, reconnecting with us as an alum, providing mentorship or advancing your venture as an industry partner, please get in touch.

Fill out the project sourcing hub form:

ibiomed@mcmaster.ca

Fill out the form here

1280 Main Street West Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Learning and Discovery Room 3515, Hamilton ON, Canada, L8S 4K1 Visit our website

McMaster University | 18