Summer Research student
Smith Engineering
Queen's University
Utomobong Essien is a Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering student at Queen’s University who will be conducting research this summer in the BONE & JOINT Biomechanics Lab under the supervision of Dr. Heidi-Lynn Ploeg.
Research Project: Utomobong’s research explores how dietary phosphate affects bone strength under spaceflight-like conditions. Using mechanical testing and computer modeling, the study aims to better understand bone health risks in microgravity.
Recent Scholarships / Accomplishments: Queen’s University Engineering International Admission Award (2023), Dean’s Scholar (2024-2025), Undergraduate Student Summer Research Fellowship (2025)