Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Yash Tiwari, My Job As A Product Development Engineer
When did you first become interested in science?
I became interested in science and engineering quite early on.
My father was a professor and I remember growing around science books on wide range of topics. I would flip through the books and I think this is what sparked my interest in science.
Why did you pick UT Health San Antonio and your program?
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and the Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering was a great choice for me for number of reasons. The research and learning resources offered by the graduate program span over both the The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and The University of Texas San Antonio campuses.
The opportunity offered by the joint graduate program to be able to take courses and do research at both universities makes it well equipped for multidisciplinary training needed in biomedical engineering.
Tell me more about your career path.
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering with focus on bioinstrumentation and medical devices.
My Ph.D. research focused on applications of Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in stroke research under supervision of Dr. Timothy Duong.
After finishing my Ph.D., I transitioned to engineering role in medical device industry and I look forward to continue working in medical device industry in future.
Tell me about your current career, what do you do?
As a product development engineer, my job involves design and testing of class III medical devices for cardiac and neuro applications (e.g Pacemakers, Deep Brain Stimulation systems etc.) with a focus on their compatibility in a MRI Environment.
What is a day like in your job?
Every day is different. It ranges from attending meetings with cross functional teams of engineers, quality systems and management, understanding user needs, design inputs, conducting engineering characterizations, ensuring device compliance with regulatory guidelines, test planning and reviewing latest research in the field.
How did the education you get at UT Health San Antonio prepare you?
The Ph.D. training I received in UT Health San Antonio is useful in many ways. Some of the directly applicable skills include domain knowledge in MRI, technical writing skills, working with multidisciplinary colleagues, prioritizing and handling multiple projects.
What is the most challenging part of your work?
The most challenging part of my current work, which is also the most fun part is learning about the breadth of technologies that are involved in systems like implantable pacemakers, cardioverters, deep brain stimulation systems.
Developing a systems engineering approach is very helpful to understand how different system components work together to create these life saving devices.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
My current work demands a strong focus on details to ensure highest standards of safety for the patients. The most rewarding part is to see that the products we work on make a positive change in patient’s lives.
What would you tell a current student interested in your career? Any advice?
It is very helpful to know early on what you want to accomplish from the graduate training. I found it useful to attend the career planning workshops at UT Health San Antonio.
It’s important to regularly get feedback on your research projects from mentors, seniors in lab, experts in your field. Graduate school is also a great time to grow your network beyond the school and getting involved with professional societies in your field.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I like reading, travelling, hiking, watching TV and spending time with friends and family. During my Ph.D. years, I have learnt to enjoy cooking.