Hello, I’m Reena!
I am a fourth-year Electrical/Biomedical Engineering student at the University of Victoria with a passion for merging technology and healthcare. Through my co-op experiences in research labs and industry settings, I’ve honed my skills in fermentation systems, 3D modeling with SolidWorks, circuit design, and embedded systems using Arduino and C.
I’m especially interested in medical device innovation and hope to contribute to solutions that make healthcare more accessible and effective. I’m currently seeking co-op opportunities where I can apply my skills in a meaningful, team-oriented environment.
Previous Co-ops
Bioprocessing Intern – Brewing Yeast Project
Lallemand Inc. | Montreal, QC | Jan – Aug 2024
At Lallemand’s bioprocess lab, I contributed to the development and optimization of brewing yeast as part of the R&D team. My work focused on improving both the shelf life and flavor profile of the yeast strains. I gained hands-on experience in yeast fermentation, operating a 20L bioreactor, and managing the downstream processing phase, including separating yeast from the broth using high-precision lab equipment.
In addition to technical tasks, I regularly performed data entry, analyzed results, and presented my findings in written and oral formats to my supervisor and lab team. This role strengthened my time management, attention to detail, and professional communication skills within a collaborative research environment.
Part-time Work
Teaching Assistant – Computer Science (C Programming)
University of Victoria | Sep 2024 – Apr 2025
As a teaching assistant for first-year computer science labs, I supported students in learning the fundamentals of programming in C. My responsibilities included guiding students through lab exercises, explaining key concepts, and troubleshooting code in real-time to enhance their understanding. I also evaluated assignments, midterms, and final exams, which deepened my understanding of C and strengthened my attention to detail. This role developed my skills in technical communication, patience, and peer mentorship within an academic environment.
Research Intern – Willerth Lab
University of Victoria | May – Apr 2023
During my internship at the Willerth Lab, I supported stem cell research and tissue engineering projects by assisting with key laboratory procedures such as media changes, bioink preparation, bioprinting, and microsphere dissociation. I worked in both Class II and Class III biosafety cabinets, adhering strictly to safety protocols. In addition to hands-on lab work, I contributed to scientific writing and proofreading of research papers, enhancing my understanding of academic research and technical documentation. This role sharpened my lab technique, attention to safety, and scientific communication skills.
Wheelchair-Mounted Disc Golf Launcher
Designed and built a spring-loaded disc launcher with an Arduino Uno-based trigger system for wheelchair users. Modeled components in SolidWorks and fabricated them using machine shop tools. Integrated servo motors, limit switches, and push-button controls for reliable, user-friendly operation.
Projects
Ocean Networks Canada Robotic Project
Built an autonomous robot to place a cleaning device on an underwater camera for a mock client. Programmed in C, the robot used ultrasonic and infrared sensors, encoded motors, and a trap-door mechanism for precise positioning. Led hardware troubleshooting and algorithm optimization in a collaborative team setting.
Heart Rate Monitor
Developed a functional heart rate monitor using an Arduino Uno and an optical pulse sensor. Programmed the device to capture and process pulse signals in real time, displaying BPM on a serial monitor. Wrote custom Arduino code for signal acquisition, peak detection, and real-time BPM calculation.
