Kayla Whatley

Kayla Whatley is a 2024-2028 Self Graduate Fellow pursuing a Ph.D. in bioengineering at the University of Kansas. In May 2023, she earned a bachelor of biomedical engineering degree with an emphasis on transport processes from the University of Minnesota (UoM) Twin Cities. Growing up in Green Bay, WI with a paraplegic father showed her the essential role biomedical engineering can play in increasing the quality of life for those with medical challenges. During her time at the UoM she furthered this passion by working with an OBGYN to create a surgical tool that allows for the safer removal of large ovarian cysts. She also researched with the Pregnancy Research & Engineering Group developing a tri-layered finite element model of uterine growth and remodeling throughout pregnancy. Currently, her research focuses on the redesign of the speculum. Her goals are to continue researching the female reproductive system, become a professor to help the next generation of students and help bridge the gap between academic research and medical professionals.

Mentors: Ken Fischer, Ph.D., Director of KU Bioengineering Program, Mechanical Engineering Professor, Director of the Biomechanical Rehabilitation Engineering Advancement in Kansas Program.