The Rise and Career of Akshay Garud: A Promising Bioengineering Student at UIUC
Akshay Garud, a student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), is an emerging talent in the fields of bioengineering and technology. With his strong academic background and diverse internship experiences, he has quickly established himself as a promising individual ready to contribute to both the academic and professional worlds. This article delves into his career, education, and experiences, highlighting his work at UIUC and his internships, while also addressing a brief incident in his personal life.
Early Life and Education
Akshay Garud’s journey into the field of engineering began with his strong academic foundation. He enrolled at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in 2021, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering. Along with his degree, Akshay has also pursued a minor in Computer Science, a combination that has enabled him to develop a broad understanding of both engineering principles and programming.
His involvement in various academic societies, such as the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and the UIUC Illini Awaaz A Cappella Team, highlights his dedication to extracurricular activities. These organizations not only helped him build leadership skills but also allowed him to interact with peers who share similar academic and professional interests.
Professional Experience
Throughout his academic career, Akshay Garud has amassed a wealth of internship experiences that have greatly enhanced his knowledge and skills. These experiences span a wide range of fields, including bioengineering, AI, web development, and genomics.
Summer Intern at Truss Health (2024)
In 2024, Akshay began his role as a Summer Intern at Truss Health, a position that allowed him to hone his skills in web development. Akshay worked with technologies such as Node.js and React to build dynamic web applications. He was involved in API testing, ensuring the smooth functioning of multiple dashboards and workflows. One of the standout projects he contributed to was the integration of a StereoPi camera into a web application, an innovative project that combined his interests in technology and healthcare.
Additionally, Akshay worked on developing labeling systems for wound tracking and assisted with data analysis using tools like Google Cloud Platform and Excel. This experience provided him with valuable insights into website design, web application testing, and the integration of cloud technologies for project management.
Research Assistant at Gritton Labs, UIUC (2023-2024)
Akshay’s passion for bioengineering and research led him to a significant role as a Research Assistant at Gritton Labs at UIUC. This internship, lasting from September 2023 to May 2024, allowed him to delve deep into neuroengineering. The lab’s focus on studying the neural rhythms that influence cognitive functions such as learning, memory, and social behavior piqued Akshay’s interest in neuroscience.
During his time at Gritton Labs, Akshay was responsible for collecting neurophysiological signals from depth electrodes implanted in mice. These signals were essential for understanding how perturbations in neural rhythms could alter brain region coupling and impact learning. Akshay also monitored brain activity using cutting-edge technologies like calcium imaging and artificial intelligence. His involvement in real-time experiments using optogenetics showcased his ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical, groundbreaking research.
Summer Research Intern at Basepair Inc (2023)
In the summer of 2023, Akshay joined Basepair Inc as a Summer Research Intern. His work focused on exploring RNA sequencing pipelines, a critical area in genomics research. Akshay developed a deep understanding of the file formats used in genomics and built a comprehensive RNA-seq data processing pipeline using command-line tools. He used RStudio and various analysis tools like gProfiler and ClusterProfiler to conduct downstream analysis on mouse striatum data, gaining valuable insights into differential expression analysis and patch sequencing.
These experiences further cemented Akshay’s position as a versatile engineer with a keen interest in biotechnology and its intersection with computational tools.
Engineering Intern at PrinterPrezz (2021)
Earlier in his academic career, Akshay worked as an Engineering Intern at PrinterPrezz, a company specializing in 3D printing for medical and aerospace applications. During his internship, he was involved in the R&D of polymer prints, conducting experiments to assess the impact of sterilization and annealing on the tensile strength of materials. Akshay’s work in testing various 3D printers and repairing mechanical issues gave him hands-on mechanical engineering experience, which proved invaluable as he continued his academic and professional journey.
Skills and Technical Proficiencies
Akshay Garud possesses a wide array of technical skills that complement his academic and professional experiences. These skills include:
- Programming Languages: Java, Python, R, and MATLAB
- Web Development: Proficiency in Node.js, React, and API testing
- Data Analysis: Experience with tools such as Google Cloud Platform, RStudio, and Excel for data processing and analysis
- Engineering: Knowledge of AutoCAD, Onshape, and Autodesk Inventor for mechanical and CAD design
- Neuroscience: Practical experience with calcium imaging, optogenetics, and neurophysiological signal collection
These skills not only highlight his versatility but also showcase his capacity to work across multiple disciplines, making him a well-rounded professional.
Personal Life and Brief Controversy
While Akshay Garud has demonstrated excellence in his academic and professional life, there has been a brief controversy surrounding his arrest. In September 2024, Akshay was arrested after an incident at UIUC’s Grainger Engineering Library, where he was involved in an altercation with other students. The incident involved inappropriate behavior that led to his removal from the library by the University of Illinois Police Department.
While the situation has been discussed widely, it’s important to note that Akshay’s academic and professional achievements continue to define his overall character. The incident does not overshadow the hard work and dedication he has shown in his field, and it serves as a learning opportunity for both him and the community.
Conclusion
Akshay Garud is a talented and ambitious individual with a bright future ahead of him in the field of bioengineering. His work at UIUC and his diverse internship experiences have equipped him with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in both research and industry. With a strong academic foundation, valuable hands-on experience, and a commitment to his personal and professional growth, Akshay is well on his way to making significant contributions to the fields of bioengineering, technology, and beyond.
