Principle Investigator
Xiao Huang, PhD
Principal Investigator
Assistant Professor
School of Biomedical Engineering,
Science and Health Systems
Drexel University
Email: xh324@drexel.edu
Biography
Xiao Huang received his PhD degree in Chemistry and Materials at UC Santa Barbara in 2016. There he worked on the spatial control of gene regulation in human embryonic stem cells through light-responsive nanomaterials. He went on to conduct his postdoctoral research at UC San Francisco, working at the interface between biomaterials and immune engineering. One highlight from his work is the development of robust chemistry to surface-functionalize biocompatible materials with exquisite precision for applications in immune modulation. To date, he has published major work in top journals such as Nat. Nanotechnol., Adv. Mater., ACS Nano, Biomaterials, Nano letters, etc.. In 2022, he received the BWF BioInterfaces Rising Star Award.Graduate Student
Binlong Chen
Biography
My research interest focuses on using precision materials engineering to stimulate T cells and gain fundamental understandings about cell signaling. Before joining the program, I obtained my Master's degree from the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, where I worked on constructing drug-targeted nano-delivery systems for anti-tumor applications. In my spare time, I enjoy cycling, watching movies, and listening to music.
Qinghe Zeng
Biography
My research interest is to modulate tumor microenvironments that can facilitate the anti-tumor activity of therapeutic T cells.
I propose to use multifunctional biomaterials to “train” T cells to excel in the suppressive environments. Before joining the program, I did my master thesis in the Chinese Academy of Sciences – Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica from 2018 to 2022, working on cancer metabolisms and targeted therapeutics. In my spare time, I love going on bike rides, watching movies, and tuning into talk shows.
Undergraduate Researcher
Beril Tore
Biography
My research interest lies in engineering persistent T cells that can keep fighting cancer no matter how chaotic the tumor microenvironment becomes. I believe our bodies are capable of miracles; sometimes they just need a little nanoparticle push.
I graduated from Robert College in 2021 and earned my bachelor's degree from Drexel University in 2025, where I developed a strong interest in immunotherapy and cellular engineering. When I’m not thinking about T cells, I’m exploring the full spectrum of coffee, from iced vanilla lattes to rich Turkish brews.
Eliot Raynor
Biography
My research interest is the observation and control of T cell differentiation in tumor environments in order to moderate their efficacy and fate. I am a biomedical engineering student at Drexel who enjoys learning everything I can, particularly in immunology. In my free time, I like to play games, read, and relax with my cats.
Aryan Shah
Biography
My research interests revolve around exploring T cells and their ability to be engineered to target tumors. I believe T cells are both the next step in the evolution of cancer treatment and are incredibly interesting. When I first started classes, I did not know what I would use them for but now I use what I learn every day which I like. After I graduate, I would like to attend medical school and become a doctor. In my free time, I like to rock climb, play soccer, and work on my car.
Nikolai Przybylski
Biography
My research interest involves engineering CAR T cells using light-activated nanoparticles with CRISPR functionalities. As a Biomedical Engineering major, I struggled to find a direction until learning about Immunology. Now, I plan on pursuing a PhD in this field after my undergraduate studies. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, rock climbing, and playing the piano.
Landon Flemming
Biography
My research interest is to understand T cell behavior through analysis of single cell RNA sequencing data. I am a computer engineering student that’s fascinated in the intersection of data analysis and immunology. In my free time I enjoy building electronics, playing the violin, and exercising.
Summer Intern
Jiayang Dong
Biography
I am a sophomore at Leland High School in San Jose, California. I have great interest in the medical field and helping people find solutions to complications with their health. I am a big fan of musical theatre, TV shows, movies, and music in general.
Summer Alumni
Omkar Katkade
2023 Summer intern, now at Johns Hopkins University
Biography
I have keen interests in medicine, research, and solving social problems. For the internship, I work on the analysis of single cell RNA sequencing data from human T cells experiencing repeated biomaterial stimulations. I am an avid Stevie Wonder fan, recently in the top 0.001% of his listeners on Spotify. I am a first-degree black belt in Karate who loves teaching his fellow students.
Riana Ramani
2024 Summer STAR program
Biography
My research interests involve learning more about the field of immunology and modern technology utilized within the field to advance medicine. I plan on becoming a medical doctor through Drexel University College of Medicine. In my free time, I love to travel, spend time with my family, and read.
Eshel Ahmad
2024 Summer STAR program
Biography
My research interests involve exploring T-cells and their anti-tumor activity for therapeutic use. I find the intersections between immunology and oncology to be incredibly interesting. As an aspiring future medical doctor, I want to better understand this sector and its uses in potential treatments. In my free time, I enjoy making jewelry as well as exploring the city.