As a high school senior in Spain, Marta Ruiz Gonzalez’s interest in applied physics was sparked by a course that challenged her perspective on the subject. Initially considering a medical career, she discovered that biomedical engineering perfectly blended her original passion and her newfound interest in physics.
Driven by her passion for biomedical engineering, Ruiz Gonzalez chose to continue her academic journey at Case Western Reserve University. Now a junior, she is embarking on a semester at the Human Fusions Institute, where she will study peripheral nerves with Ph.D. student Margaux Randolph. Their collaborative work aims to enhance the testing and performance of an electrode implanting system for the nerves.
A CWRU Neuroscience Society member, Ruiz Gonzalez heard about HFI from one of her fellow club members. After meeting Randolph and hearing about their interest in neural engineering, she knew she wanted to get involved. “Neurosurgery is a very broad area in constant evolution, and biomedical engineering could potentially solve many problems and improve many procedures,” she said.
Looking ahead, Ruiz Gonzalez is eager to make her mark in the device design industry. Her ultimate goal is to collaborate with neurosurgeons, understand their specific needs, and enhance surgical procedures.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Ruiz Gonzalez is an active member of the CWRU running club. She values the opportunity to meet new people and stay fit, finding balance in her life outside the STEM arena.
