Sara Heedy

Sara Heedy has a diverse work experience spanning various roles and industries. Sara is currently working as a Scientist at Glaukos Corporation since January 2022. Prior to this, they worked as a Lab Assistant at UC Irvine Materials Research Institute from March 2018 to December 2021.

During their time at UC Irvine, Sara held the position of Graduate Student Researcher and PhD Candidate from September 2017 to December 2021. Sara'sresearch focused on the mechanical performance, stability, and antimicrobial efficacy of a polymer surface with biomimetic nanopillars. Sara co-wrote a $2.5 million grant proposal awarded by the Department of Defense for the development of a novel bandage contact lens with ocular drug delivery. Sara also conducted evaluations on the role of nanoscale surface structures on different polymer systems and established standard test methods for testing thermal and mechanical properties of polymer matrices.

Sara's experience also includes being a Visiting Researcher at Berkeley Lab's Molecular Foundry from April 2019 to April 2020. Sara has previously worked as a Technical College Intern at Northrop Grumman in 2016 and as an R&D Data Analysis Intern at UTC Aerospace Systems in 2015. Prior to that, they served as a Marketing Communication Coordinator at Anasys Instruments from December 2011 to November 2013.

Throughout their career, Sara has demonstrated excellent research skills, project management abilities, and cost-saving initiatives.

Sara Heedy completed their education in a chronological sequence. Sara began their academic journey at Santa Barbara City College from 2011 to 2014, where they pursued an Associate of Arts degree in Marketing. Following that, Sara continued their studies at UC Irvine from 2014 to 2017, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. Sara's educational journey culminated at UC Irvine, where they pursued a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Chemical Engineering from 2017 to 2021.