Jane Grimm

Global Challenge: Improving early diagnostic methods for autoimmune diseases

Bio:

Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Jane is currently a junior at NYU Tandon School of Engineering, majoring in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a PhD in Chemical Engineering and conduct research related to the medical field.

Over the summer, Jane participated in research in NYU’s de Lázaro Lab alongside Postdoctoral Researcher Dr. Laura Pineiro-Alonso, working on a project focused on nanoparticle formulation for skeletal muscle transfection. Through this experience, she developed technical laboratory and experimental skills while gaining a stronger interest in pursuing research and academia. This semester, she will continue developing her research experience in the Pinkerton Lab, where she will work with PhD candidate Erica Burnham on polymer synthesis and microparticle formulations. These experiences have strengthened her problem-solving and research skills while allowing her to explore different approaches to drug delivery and biomaterials. Outside of research, she serves as the Chemistry Team Lead at Tandon’s Polytechnic Tutoring Center (PTC). She enjoys tutoring and supporting her peers and is excited to take on a greater leadership role within the center. Through her research and tutoring experiences, she has developed technical, communication, mentorship, and leadership skills. Following graduation, she hopes to continue pursuing research and prepare for graduate study, with the long-term goal of contributing to biomedical engineering through academic research and mentorship.

Jane spent her sophomore spring studying abroad at NYU London, which was her first experience living and studying outside of the United States. During her time abroad, she was able to visit several other countries and experience a variety of cultures and perspectives. This experience encouraged her to become more open to perspectives different from her own and gave her a greater appreciation for cross-cultural experiences. It also helped her become more comfortable navigating unfamiliar environments and adapting to new situations, contributing to both her personal growth and broader global perspective.

Being part of the GLASS program has given her opportunities and encouragement to pursue experiences that have pushed her outside of her comfort zone. GLASS has motivated her to take on opportunities that initially felt intimidating and has helped her build confidence in working toward her long-term goal of engineering solutions that improve health. The global challenge that resonates most with Jane is equitable access to healthcare, connecting closely with the UN Sustainable Development Goal of Good Health and Well-Being. She hopes to improve health outcomes and make effective treatments more accessible to people across different communities and countries through engineering innovations. In the future, she hopes to contribute to the medical field and help mentor the new students through research and education as a professor.

Outside of academics and professional life, Jane enjoys weightlifting, running, cooking, spending time with friends and family, and exploring New York City in her free time.

Jane Grimm, PTC Chemistry Tutor and Team Leader, is a junior majoring in chemical and biomolecular engineering. She is most passionate about applying her engineering skills to the medical field. Jane was born and raised In Portland, Oregon, and loves staying active and cooking in her free time. She has been tutoring for over three years and continues to love helping students gain confidence in their academics and in themselves.