Nathan Churcher, a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate in the Graduate Bioengineering program at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), embodies resilience and determination. As a first-generation graduate student, he earned his Bachelor of Science from UTD in 2019, graduating Magna cum laude. During his undergraduate years, Nathanconducted groundbreaking research in the Biomedical Microdevices and Nanotechnology Lab (BMNL) under Dr. Shalini Prasad’s mentorship. His work focused on developing a platform for detecting neuropeptide-Y (NPY) to monitor Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). In the fall of 2020, Nathan continued his academic journey within the Graduate Bioengineering program at UTD. Under Dr. Prasad’s guidance, he now explores multiplexed platforms for detecting biomarkers related to the host immune response, specifically targeting chronic respiratory infections. Nathan’s accolades include the NSF LSAMP Bridge to the Doctorate Fellowship, the Eugene McDermott Graduate Fellowship, and the Jonsson Family Bioengineering Fellowship. As an active member of BMES, Phi Kappa Phi, and Alpha Eta Mu Beta (AEMB), he aspires to shape the future of STEM education. Nathan envisions an academic career that combines impactful research and dedicated teaching, with a special focus on supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds. Beyond academia, Nathan finds joy in family time, music, and the humor of shows like “The Office” and “Scrubs.” His passion extends beyond the lab, as he shares his voice in his church choir.