Chippewa Valley Times

Dylan Berry, a senior in biomedical engineering from Pecatonica, Illinois, is preparing to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. With both parents working in scientific fields—his mother as a biochemist and his father as an electrical engineer—Berry found a natural fit in biomedical engineering.

Initially considering an R1 university for its research opportunities, Berry ultimately chose UW-Eau Claire due to its unique undergraduate offerings and affordability. "To have received such a top-notch education, taken part in advanced research at the undergraduate level and be leaving here with no student loans looming over my head is truly amazing," he states.

Berry will receive his bachelor's degree on May 17 with minors in biology and physics. His academic journey included participation in the Mark Stephen Cosby Honors College. Dr. Heather Fielding, director of the college, commends Berry's leadership and creativity: "Dylan was never just a student in honors — he helped shape the program to create new student opportunities."

In addition to his academic achievements, Berry has been active outside the classroom. He served as president of the Biomedical Engineering Society and participated in multiple research projects. One notable project involved developing a prototype glove designed to reduce tremors for Parkinson’s patients. Dr. Marc McEllstrem mentored him during this work.

Berry has already secured employment with HeartWorks, where he will begin training this summer. Reflecting on his time at UW-Eau Claire, Berry credits early research experiences for his job offer: "Because I sought out a research opportunity in cell culturing during my first year, it opened the door for me."

Dr. Timothy Nelson, CEO of HeartWorks and director of innovation for Mayo Clinic Health System-Northwest Wisconsin, praises UWEC graduates: “The real-world skill set of these students fits perfectly with our needs performing tissue engineering and cell-based manufacturing.”