Thursday, September 24, 2026
4:00 pm-5:00 pm
Advancing Electrochemical Sensor Research and Undergraduate STEM Education at Navajo Technical University
Abstract: Limited resources and access to centralized healthcare facilities within the Navajo Nation have underscored the urgent need for low-cost, decentralized diagnostic tools. This talk presents our NEST Lab work on the simple, scalable fabrication of paper-based and laser-induced graphene electrodes for electrochemical and biosensing applications. These platforms enable sensitive, selective detection of heavy metals, biomolecules, clinically relevant cancer biomarkers, and bisphenol (BP) compounds, an essential class of endocrine disruptors linked to environmental and health concerns. Using simple techniques such as hand coating, wax patterning (using a commercial wax printer), and laser engraving, we engineered the sensors to be affordable, portable, and accessible, making them ideal for deployment in underserved and remote areas. The NEST Lab research provides a vital training opportunity for undergraduate students at Navajo Technical University, offering hands-on experience in electrochemistry research, sensor design, fabrication, and testing. Through this research, Navajo students are empowered to address real-world challenges in their communities, such as water contamination, exposure to endocrine disruptors, and early disease detection, helping bridge the gap between advanced research, STEM education, and local impact within the Navajo Nation.
