The 2025 Bioengineering Graduate Research Symposium, held on May 9 at the Singh Center for Nanotechnology, was a dynamic showcase of cutting-edge student research and a powerful example of scientific community in action. Organized by the Penn Bioengineering Graduate Group, the event featured a full afternoon of oral and poster presentations highlighting advances in immunotherapy, neuroengineering, regenerative medicine, and more. From engineering CAR-T therapies to decoding brain circuitry in depression and obesity, the symposium demonstrated the ingenuity and collaborative spirit of Penn’s graduate students.
A standout moment of the day was the keynote address by Drew Weissman, MD, PhD, a 2023 Nobel Laureate in Medicine and Director of the Penn Institute for RNA Innovation. Dr. Weissman traced the trajectory of mRNA science, from its early hurdles to its pivotal role in developing life-saving COVID-19 vaccines. He also shared where the field is headed—toward applications in cancer, autoimmune diseases, and beyond. His talk connected fundamental research with global impact, echoing the values at the heart of Penn Bioengineering.
Beyond the research, the symposium fostered a sense of community—welcoming faculty, students, and staff to connect over science and shared curiosity. With two lively poster sessions accompanied by refreshments, attendees had ample opportunity to exchange ideas and forge new collaborations. The event culminated in a reception that reflected the collegial, interdisciplinary ethos that defines Penn Bioengineering.
Whether through high-throughput diagnostic platforms, innovative biomaterials, or neuroimaging technologies, the work presented at the symposium exemplified how research at Penn is not only advancing science but also addressing critical challenges in health and society. The 2025 Symposium was not just a showcase, it was a celebration of a thriving research community, united in its pursuit of innovation and impact.
