Darrell Omo-Lamai | Student Spotlight

Darrell Omo-Lamai

PhD Student
Materials Science and Engineering

"My research at Stanford focuses on enhancing the detection and structural characterization of clinically relevant biomolecules at concentrations approaching the single-molecule limit."

This is achieved using nanostructured optical materials, called metasurfaces. I engineer the geometry and the optical constants of these materials such that they support long-lived resonances with strong, spatially localized electromagnetic fields. When overlapped with these high-field regions, the spectroscopic emission of analyte molecules is boosted. This research could lead to new, non-invasive ways to study biological molecules with greater detail, which could ultimately have broad applications in biology and medicine.

Growing up in Nigeria, I witnessed first-hand the critical need for scientific innovation, leadership, and a global perspective to address issues like healthcare and sustainability. Hence, I was drawn to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) program because of its emphasis on developing global leaders who are not only experts in their fields but also committed generally to solving the world’s most pressing challenges. KHS provides a unique platform to engage with an interdisciplinary community of scholars from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration and leadership development. Through the program, I engage in workshops, mentorship, and leadership training experiences that challenge me to think beyond my immediate research goals. It’s an opportunity to develop skills that will allow me to apply my technical expertise in ways that benefit society at large.