Emma P. Bortz

I am an undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering. My research in Dr. Khismatullin's Biomedical Acoustics Laboratory is focused on the ablation of cancer cells via High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). My research in the Biomedical Acoustics Laboratory gives me experience with sterile cell culturing of prostate cancer cell lines (DU145, PC3) and hepatic cancer cell lines (HEP3B, HEPG2). Using these cell lines, I have performed adhesion experiments to examine the changes in tumorigenicity of the cells treated with a combination of focused ultrasound and ethanol. Next semester I will be investigating the effects of HIFU on the proliferation of cancer stem cells. I am excited to incorporate my findings into my undergraduate thesis and to potentially further my education with graduate schooling.

In addition to my research, I am involved in Sigma Delta Tau sorority at Tulane University. As a sister of Sigma Delta Tau, I participate in many philanthropy activities throughout the semester. We raise money for Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA), Jewish Women International (JWI), New Orleans Child Advocacy Center (NOCAC), and Women for Women International. I also enjoy exploring the city of New Orleans and experiencing all it has to offer. I grew up in Spokane, WA, where I spent my time hiking, skiing, and spending time with my family.

Curriculum Vitae
LinkedIn Page