Tumor Mechanics
3D spheroid models and compression workflows to study how mechanical forces drive invasion.
About Me
Hi, I’m Mrinal Pandey — a Ph.D. candidate at Cornell University passionate about understanding how mechanical forces shape cancer progression. My research bridges tumor mechanics, microfluidics, and 3D spheroid models to uncover how compression and viscoelasticity influence invasion.
I thrive in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments, enjoy mentoring students, and value inclusive practices in science. I aim to build tools and insights that guide better cancer diagnostics and therapies.
Highlights
Microfluidics & Imaging
Custom devices and confocal imaging to quantify viscoelasticity and ECM remodeling.
Collaboration & Mentoring
Cross-functional teamwork, training students, and clear science communication.
Education
-
Cornell University — Ph.D. Candidate, Biological Engineering
Jan 2020 – Present · Ithaca, NY
Member of Alpha Epsilon Biological Engineering Honor Society. -
KTH Royal Institute of Technology — M.S., Medical Biotechnology
Aug 2017 – Oct 2019 · Stockholm, Sweden
Experience
Cornell University — Ph.D. Candidate & Research Assistant
Jan 2020 – Present · Ithaca, NY
- Designed and optimized in vitro models to investigate how compression impacts tumor invasion.
- Built microfluidic devices to study tumor viscoelasticity; collaborated with theorists to develop predictive models.
- Teaching Assistant (Spring semesters): trained students in bioinstrumentation, experimental design, and data analysis.
SciLifeLab — Master’s Thesis Researcher
Sept 2018 – Jun 2019 · Stockholm, Sweden
- Developed and validated immunoassays for host cell protein detection using microfluidics, ELISA, and mass spectrometry.
Skills
- Microfluidics
- 3D tumor spheroids
- Confocal imaging
- Immunoassays
- Experimental design
- Data analysis
Software
- MATLAB
- GraphPad Prism
- CorelDraw
- Microsoft Office
Interpersonal
- Leadership
- Cross‑functional collaboration
- Mentoring
- Communication
Leadership & Professional Development
COLMAN Inclusive Leadership Fellow
Cornell University, 2024
Selected for a competitive fellowship program focused on building inclusive leadership skills and fostering diversity in STEM. Engaged in structured workshops and collaborative discussions aimed at enhancing team performance, equity, and belonging in scientific environments.
WE Lead — Women in Engineering Leadership Program
Cornell University, 2023
Participated in a selective leadership program designed to advance women leaders in engineering and technical disciplines. Gained training in strategic decision-making, negotiation, and leading complex technical teams.
Selected Work
- Enhanced extracellular matrix remodeling due to embedded spheroid fluidization. New Journal of Physics, May 2025.
- Decoding physical principles of cell migration under controlled environment using microfluidics. Biophysics Reviews, July 2024.
- Mechanical compression regulates tumor spheroid invasion into a 3D collagen matrix. Physical Biology, April 2024.
- Tumor spheroid invasion in epidermal growth factor gradients revealed by a 3D microfluidic device. Physical Biology, March 2022.
- Impact of addition of biochar along with Bacillus sp. on the growth and yield of French beans. Scientia Horticulturae, August 2013.
Talks & Abstracts
- Viscoelastic properties of tumor spheroids revealed by a microfluidic rheometer — GRC Physical Science of Cancer, Pomona, CA (2025).
- The mechanics of tumor spheroids revealed by a 3D microfluidic rheometer — Bulletin of the APS (2024).
- Effect of compression on tumor fluidity and invasion — APS March Meeting, Chicago, IL (2022).
- Impact of biochar with Bacillus sp. on French beans — HBTI Kanpur, India (2013).
Full list on Google Scholar.
Beyond Research
Science is a big part of my life, but not the only part. Here are a few things that keep me energized outside the lab.
Hiking & Outdoors
Exploring trails and mountains — recharging in nature is where I get my best ideas.
Perfect kayak and biking buddy
Always up for some outdoor fun.
Let’s connect
I’m currently open to work and would love to chat more on our common interests.