Innovation Initiative Fellows and Projects
Each summer a group of students engage in full-time innovation-focused research, working alongside faculty mentors and receiving stipends supported by the Bailey College Innovation Initiative.
Summer 2025
Personal Bio:
My name is Sophia O’Mahony, and I am a junior at Cal Poly studying physics. I grew up in Seattle, Washington and am passionate about learning, the outdoors and music. I am a first violin in the symphony orchestra, an avid climber, surfer, and amateur astronomer.
Project:
Parallel Pedagogy Dissemination
Project Description:
Why doesn’t everybody use Parallel Pedagogy? Developed at Cal Poly, this introductory physics curriculum is better at teaching students to apply concepts and represents a novel way of learning in general. While it is preferred by every instructor that has tried it, few instructors make the switch. We are studying this. Our goal is to mitigate adoption barriers, so more people use Parallel Pedagogy.
Personal Bio:
My name is Shawky Bassil, and I’m a rising third-year Biology major at Cal Poly, concentrating in anatomy and physiology. After graduating from Cal Poly, I plan to attend dental school and specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Project:
Point of Care Diagnostics
Project Description:
Our project focuses on developing a point-of-care test that can conveniently detect different Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) isoforms. Since the ApoE4 isoform is strongly associated with an increased risk of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, this test can help individuals identify their genetic risk early on. By providing this information in an accessible setting, we aim to empower users to take proactive steps toward managing their health.
Personal Bio:
My name is Elliot Kunz, and I am in my rising fourth year at Cal Poly SLO pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Minor in Data Science. I am currently working as a member of a bioinformatics research team at the Computational Molecular Sciences Lab under Dr. Davidson and Dr. Anderson where I apply machine-learning techniques to biological data.
Project:
Domain Knowledge and Patient Metadata Informed Classification Tool Development for Precision UTI Diagnosis
Project Description:
We are developing a diagnostic website that leverages easily obtainable clinical and general patient metadata—such as age, sex, symptoms, and recent medical history—to predict the likely pathogens responsible for urinary tract infections (UTIs). By comparing patient profiles to publicly available datasets of confirmed UTI cases, the platform delivers probabilities for potential pathogens and highlights likely antibiotic resistance patterns. This predictive tool is designed to support clinicians in making more targeted decisions about diagnostic testing and antibiotic treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes and promoting more effective antimicrobial stewardship.
Personal Bio:
I am a biochemistry major at Cal Poly with a minor in Entrepreneurship. My interests are an intersection of health, chemistry, and innovation. After graduation, I plan to pursue a career that bridges science and business.
Project:
Algae-based Recovery Supplement
Project Description:
The project investigates the development of a hangover-relief supplement aimed at reducing the harmful effects of alcohol metabolism byproducts. The formulation leverages a nutrient-dense, algae-derived compound known for its detoxifying properties, along with electrolytes to support recovery.
Personal Bio:
As a Chemistry major with a minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation, I have developed a strong foundation in analytical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and entrepreneurial problem-solving. With experience in Python-based data analysis and a solid background in both physical and biological sciences, I approach challenges with a balance of discipline and creativity.
Project:
Formulation Discovery and Optimization
Project Description:
This project focuses on improving the efficiency of formulation and chemical database referencing through the development of a dedicated software platform. The objective is to simplify and enhance the discovery and optimization of new chemical products, mixtures, and formulations within the polymers and coatings industry.