Stevenson Biomedical Engineering Senior Accepted to University of Florida Ph.D. Program

April 2, 2024 1 PM
Stevenson University senior Jai Raccioppi was recently accepted to the Biomedical Engineering Ph.D. program at the University of Florida.

Jai Raccioppi, a senior in Stevenson University’s Biomedical Engineering program, was recently accepted to the Biomedical Engineering Ph.D. program at the University of Florida.

“Jai is a great example of what we expect from all of the students in Stevenson’s Biomedical Engineering program,” said Neil Rothman, Biomedical Engineering Professor and Program Coordinator. “He excels academically, is a curious researcher, and is motivated to pursue experiences that enhance his education and prepare him for a successful career. It has been a pleasure having him in our program and we expect great things from him as he pursues his Ph.D.and beyond.”

At the University of Florida, Jai will be conducting research in the Tissue Mechanics, Microstructure, and Modeling Laboratory (TM3) under Dr. Lakiesha Williams, as well as working in collaboration with the neurosurgeons at Shands Hospital for pre-clinical studies. His first topic of research will examine how neurofibrillary tangles spread throughout the brain, and the effects of traumatic brain injury on this process.

“Before my grandfather passed away, he received treatment and imaging for potential neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s at Shands Hospital,” Jai said. “In that same building, I hope to advance the knowledge on how these neurodegenerative disorders develop and discover a new measure to prevent them. I have spent all four years as a Stevenson student athlete heavily involved with many extra curriculars to perfect my time management skill. Stevenson has prepared me perfectly for this next step.”

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