BioE Student Spotlight: Nancy Cárcamo Paiz
This article was written by Rida M., Bioengineering undergraduate student and student office worker in the Department of Bioengineering.
From Guatemala to Lehigh University, Nancy Cárcamo Paiz has embarked on a journey fueled by curiosity, innovation, and a passion for bioengineering. A bioengineering major specializing in the biopharmaceutical track, Cárcamo Paiz has embraced hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and impactful research opportunities to advance healthcare solutions.
Cárcamo Paiz’s passion for bioengineering stems from a strong foundation in science and a desire to create positive change. She explains, "I realized how bioengineering combines my passions for problem-solving in its engineering aspect as well as the biology aspect, and that both can be combined and focused towards developing innovative ways to improve human health." This realization, guided by mentorship and exposure to the field, led her to pursue bioengineering at Lehigh University.
Beyond the classroom, Cárcamo Paiz has actively sought opportunities to apply her knowledge. She is part of the SicklED Global Social Impact Fellowship, a team developing a rapid diagnostic device for sickle cell disease. She says, "I love being part of this endeavor towards improving health in low-income settings and how I have been able to use the theoretical skills I have acquired in my bioengineering courses to complement my hands-on experience in the fellowship.” Her work in this initiative highlights the real-world impact of bioengineering and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Cárcamo Paiz’s dedication to research and innovation was further solidified when she attended the BMES 2024 Annual Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. She recalls, "It was a great opportunity to meet other Lehigh students that are working on amazing bioengineering-related projects." This experience not only allowed her to present her work but also to connect with faculty, peers, and professionals in the field, reinforcing the strength of Lehigh’s BioE community.
For current and future bioengineering students, Cárcamo Paiz offers this advice, "I would advise you to take any opportunities you have at Lehigh to apply the knowledge you get in class. There is a lot of high-impact opportunities that are related to BioE and will lead you to amazing experiences." With her strong foundation and passion for making a difference, Cárcamo Paiz is poised to continue her journey in bioengineering, whether through further education or groundbreaking research in the field.
