Erika is from Buford, Georgia, and has always resided in northern Georgia. As a first generation college student, she graduated in 2019 from the University of North Georgia (UNG) with Associate of Science degrees in Computer Science and Physics. She later transferred to UGA,where she earned a Bachelor of Biological Engineering in 2022. She is now a Ph.D. candidate in Biomedical Engineering at UGA, where she leads a project focused on optimizing bioreactors for mesenchymal stem cell conditioning for osteogenic differentiation under the advisement of Dr.Cheryl Gomillion.
Building on this Ph. D. project, Erika has developed a broader interest in advancing other’s knowledge in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Beyond her Ph.D. research and role as lab manager, she has supported student learning as a graduate teaching assistant in courses such as Mass Transport and Rate Phenomena, Engineering Physiology, and Capstone Engineering Design. She has also been actively involved in many organizations spanning STEAM education and science communication, reflecting her passion for mentoring and supporting others in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine research. Whether in college classrooms, engineering summer camps, or the Gomillion Lab, Erika enjoys the process and effect of implementing modern teaching practices to engage learners at different stages.