Conference Presentation

Author: Aidan Donoho | Major: Electrical Engineering | Semester: Spring 2024

As an electrical engineering student immersed in research at the University of Arkansas, I seek to utilize my knowledge to aid the world around me. Upon being approached about assisting with a research project dedicated to helping those with chronic pain, I was intrigued. Collaborating with the industrial engineering department, we aimed to discover a link between expectations and pain tolerance/threshold. Upon successful conduction of the study, I was honored to have the opportunity to present alongside Emma Paulus at the Rocky Mountain Bioengineering Symposium.

At the symposium, I met many leaders in the field of bioengineering, each with their own unique perspectives and research. Engaging in discussions and exchanging ideas with these professionals was an incredibly valuable experience. I was offered many different avenues to assist with new methods of effective data collection for further expansion within the pain tolerance subfield.

Our presentation garnered significant interest, with multiple questions being offered during and after the presentation. These questions prompted further discussion and provoked many revelations on the applications of electrical engineering within the world of data gathering for medicinal research.

One particularly memorable encounter was with an expert highly familiar with the operations of TENS units as medicinal tools. He offered advice on how to control for bicep size as a nuisance variable, to offer a more objective measure of pain tolerance to the experiment.

Beyond the academic sphere, the symposium also served as a platform for forging meaningful connections. Informal discussions offered plentiful opportunities to connect with mentors.

Reflecting on my experience at the Rocky Mountain Bioengineering Symposium, I am reminded of the profound impact that research and innovation can have on improving lives and advancing human knowledge. As I continue my journey as an electrical engineering student, I am excited to develop my skills and connections, growing in knowledge within fields adjacent to my expertise. The conference was a great opportunity for me to grow as an engineer and I hope to have further opportunities to connect with experts in the field.