BioE Student Spotlight: Maggie Campbell
This article was written by Juliana M., Bioengineering undergraduate student and student office worker in the Department of Bioengineering.
Maggie Campbell (ChBE '24) is a master's student pursuing a degree in bioengineering at Lehigh University, with a focus on biomaterials. Originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, Campbell came to Lehigh as an undergraduate biology major. She was drawn in by Lehigh’s reputation for strong STEM programs and the wide range of research opportunities available.
During her undergraduate years, Campbell discovered her passion for biomaterials through hands-on lab work in Professor Whitney Blocher McTigue’s chemical engineering lab. “Not only did I find my classes to be incredibly engaging, but I also found my research niche in biomaterials,” she says. That experience helped her decide to stay at Lehigh and continue her education in bioengineering.
Campbell was drawn to bioengineering because of how interdisciplinary it is. “It encompasses all of my research interests and involves working toward solutions to many of the major issues we see in today’s world,” she explains. “I also love how biology, chemistry, engineering, business, and medicine all connect with each other.”
One of Campbell’s favorite memories with the BioE department was attending the 2024 Annual BMES Conference in Baltimore. “I loved presenting my work, listening to those in my field present theirs, and spending time with my fellow researchers,” she says. It was at that same conference where she first joined BMES, the Biomedical Engineering Society. Since then, Campbell has continued to be an active member, regularly finding inspiration through the research and people involved.
Outside the classroom and lab, Campbell has a long list of hobbies, but playing and coaching chess is at the top. It’s a passion that reflects her love for problem-solving and strategic thinking, both key skills in her field.
Campbell plans to continue working in research after she graduates in January 2026. Whether in industry, medicine, or academia, she knows her experiences at Lehigh will prepare her to lead and contribute meaningfully in any lab setting. “I’m so grateful for my continued research experiences both in my classes and outside of them,” she says. “They will definitely help me in whatever career path I choose.”
Her advice for future bioengineering students is: “If you think you know what you want your future career to be. Whether that’s research, supply chain, academia, or industry, start gaining experience in that field as early as possible.”
With her strong academic background, deep research experience, and drive to make an impact, Campbell is excited for what comes next and ready to keep learning every step of the way.