Agnieszka “Agnes” Machowski ’25 is engaging in interdisciplinary research on human body movement as she prepares to apply to medical school. Already holding a bachelor’s in nursing, Agnes is pursuing a post-baccalaureate certificate in biology and is part of UHart’s pre-medical advising program.
Working with Physics Professor Hashini Mohottala, Agnes stepped into a research role that focused on the intricate mechanics of the knee, and she found herself not just studying textbooks but actively shaping a 3D-printed leg prototype. For Agnes, this wasn't just an academic exercise; it was about translating her understanding of the human body into a tangible model, ensuring its movements mirrored the complexity of a real leg.
“This experience has already had a significant impact on how I think about my future in medicine, “she says. “It showed me the importance of understanding not just the biological systems of the body, but also the physical forces acting on them. In clinical fields like orthopedics, sports medicine, and physical rehabilitation, a strong grasp of biomechanics can enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.”
A particularly significant experience occurred for Agnes when she met someone living without a patellar (kneecap) tendon. She says this shifted her perspective, transforming the research from an abstract exercise into a study with profound real-world implications, highlighting the diverse ways individuals adapt to anatomical variations. “Leading the patellar tendon project gave me hands-on experience in designing and testing a physical model of joint mechanics, which helped me better visualize how muscles, tendons, and bones interact under different loads.”
Agnes says working on and leading an interdisciplinary team was one of the most enriching parts of this research experience. “I brought my understanding of human anatomy and physiology to the table, while my teammates contributed expertise in physics, mathematics, and mechanical design. I’m especially thankful to Professor Mohottala for believing in me and encouraging me to take on this challenge. Her support helped me grow not just as a student and future physician, but as someone who now sees the beauty and potential of interdisciplinary collaboration.” Previously, Agnes served on Mohottala’s research team that studied the biomechanics of the human arm.
Her biggest piece of advice to biology and chemistry students interested in interdisciplinary research is not to be intimidated by fields outside of their comfort zone. “Stepping into an interdisciplinary project, especially one involving physics, engineering, or data analysis, can completely transform how you understand the human body and the world around it.”
Agnes Machowski ’25, College of Arts and SciencesI brought my understanding of human anatomy and physiology to the table, while my teammates contributed expertise in physics, mathematics, and mechanical design. I’m especially thankful to Professor Mohottala for believing in me and encouraging me to take on this challenge.