Myers Talks about the Science of Small Things

Biomedical engineering is a field often associated with advanced imaging tools, robotic surgery, and high‑tech health systems. But Asst. Prof. David Myers knows that some of the most powerful innovations happen at scales so small they’re nearly invisible. In episode eight of Holy Shift! Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow podcast, host Angela Gill Nelms and Myers discuss the field of microsystems engineering and how the future of medicine may be shaped by devices smaller than a grain of rice  

Myers studies tiny, engineered structures that behave in surprising ways. At these scales, fluids don’t slosh; forces shift, and entirely new engineering principles come into play. These tiny phenomena enable the creation of ultra‑sensitive diagnostic technologies capable of detecting subtle differences in biological samples. 

One of the most promising applications of this research is a technology that allows DNA and RNA to be shipped at room temperature. This innovation could expand diagnostic access for rural and underserved communities. By eliminating the need for ultra‑cold transport, testing becomes easier, cheaper, and far more accessible. Expanding this work could improve the way patients in both urban and rural settings receive diagnostic testing and tailored care.  

Myers’ research on platelet strength offers another example of small‑scale engineering with large‑scale impact. By adapting micro‑force sensors originally designed for mechanical systems, his team helped uncover why certain patients experience unexplained bleeding disorders. The discovery that specific antibodies can strengthen or weaken platelets may open new pathways for diagnosis and, eventually, treatment. 

But Myers isn’t only shaping biomedical engineering from the lab; he’s also shaping how people understand science. With a thriving Instagram and TikTok presence, he creates short, humorous videos that remind people that scientists are regular, quirky humans who love what they do. “Academic life is just like everybody else’s life,” he says. “It’s just got these little weird nuances.” 

Myers also shares his own unconventional journey from mechanical engineering to his current research. He talks about the important role universities play in creating opportunities to network and collaborate with others to solve real-world problems. 

Produced by the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University, Holy Shift! Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow is the podcast for your inside look at Coulter BME.  

Host Angela Gill Nelms chats with the brilliant minds behind the research to learn how biomedical engineers are shifting the status quo to drive breakthroughs and improve lives.  

New episodes are released every other Wednesday. Subscribe and listen to Holy Shift! online, on YouTube, and on all streaming platforms.