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Rafael Jaimes

Title:
Biomedical engineer
Rafael Jaimes
It's great that I can bounce ideas off people from the space, biotechnology, and mechanical groups, just to name a few, all under one roof.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in a lesser-known neighborhood of Boston called Roslindale. Between my five siblings and our neighbors, there was always a lot of activity on the street and nearby parks. Pickup games of basketball, football, and baseball were commonplace. There was so much to explore and do; it was very exciting.

Why do you think the Laboratory is a good fit for you?

My field of biomedical engineering is known for its interdisciplinary nature, and the Laboratory is a good fit for people like me who like research that encompasses multiple fields. It's great that I can bounce ideas off people from the space, biotechnology, and mechanical groups, just to name a few, all under one roof.

What is the focus of your research?

Data curation and engineering is a focus of my research. One of the programs I am leading involves investigation of how our DNA expression changes and provides a window into the past for what someone may have been exposed to — biologically or chemically. The platforms we develop curate very large biological datasets and enable collaborative data analysis and development of artificial intelligence algorithms.

What got you interested in biomedical engineering?

I am very interested in many aspects of science, engineering, and medicine. I was torn between studying computer engineering and biology, so biomedical engineering was a good fit that encompassed many aspects from both fields.

Where have you traveled, and where would you like to visit?

I have visited many of the states, and have also spent a lot of time in Central and South America, where my father is originally from. Camping in the Amazon for a month was one of the most surreal adventures I have ever endured. I have never crossed either the Pacific or Atlantic oceans, but I hope to visit other continents someday.