Passion in research: Yomi Nathan’s journey to finding his niche
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University has been the hub of mechanical engineering master’s student Yomi Nathan’s academic journey. With an interest in biomedical engineering, Nathan finds his life’s inspiration in his studies.
Nathan’s path began when he decided to leave Nigeria to continue his education in the United States. This choice brought him to Kalamazoo Valley Community College, which he chose because of the accessible pathway it offered to begin his education. He eventually transferred to WMU in 2018 when he received the Haenicke Scholarship.
“From a young age, I knew I wanted to become an engineer, though I was initially uncertain about which discipline to pursue,” says Nathan. “After exploring interests in electrical and aerospace engineering, I ultimately chose mechanical engineering because of its broad and versatile foundation.”
“That decision later proved pivotal, enabling me to transition into interdisciplinary biomedical research that integrates materials science, fluid mechanics and electromagnetic systems.”
Nathan has seen nothing but success since beginning his studies at WMU. He completed his undergraduate degree in 2022, during which he completed an internship with Summit Polymer. He began working at Pfizer as a Vaccine Engineering Technician after graduating, where he gained valuable exposure to pharmaceutical manufacturing and biomedical applications. The materials and environment at Pfizer inspired him to return to Western in 2024 to pursue a master’s degree.
As a graduate student, Nathan’s research is based around developing tiny 3D-printed biodegradable PLA platforms to grow and study living cells while using nanoparticles for controlled drug delivery.
“In simple terms, I build miniature lab systems that mimic the human body to better understand cell behavior and test treatments,” says Nathan. “This work can help improve drug delivery, tissue engineering and future biomedical technologies.”
Nathan notes that one of the most valuable experiences he’s had at Western is working as a teaching assistant. In this role, he has developed the confidence to present in front of students each week: a task he claims was a significant challenge for him before starting graduate school.
“One of the most important lessons I learned as a TA is that fear never truly disappears,” says Nathan. “You simply learn not to let it control you.”
Nathan’s ultimate career goal is to become a leading researcher and professor in biomedical engineering. He aims to continue into a Ph.D. program and contribute to research that bridges engineering innovation with practical biomedical applications.
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