Magdy Ibrahim - Clinical Bioanalytical Chemistry

Can you share a little bit about the project you worked on and presented?

My graduate research focused on the design and electrochemical evaluation of selenium-based (organoselenide) modified electrodes for the sensitive detection of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species, particularly peroxynitrite. Using electroanalytical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry and scanning electrochemical probe microscopy, I developed and optimized selenium-containing interfaces that exploit selenium’s unique redox chemistry. The goal was to achieve high sensitivity, selectivity, and fast response under biologically relevant conditions.

What do you hope people will take away from the research you have presented?

I hope the audience recognizes that selenium chemistry offers a powerful and underutilized platform for bio-redox sensing. Beyond the specific sensor design, the broader takeaway is that carefully tailored redox-active materials can bridge fundamental electrochemistry with real biological and clinical applications, opening pathways for improved oxidative stress monitoring and disease-related diagnostics.

Why did you choose your specific CSU degree for your graduate degree?

I chose the Bioanalytical Chemistry PhD program at Cleveland State University because it offers strong interdisciplinary training that integrates analytical chemistry, electrochemistry, and biological systems. CSU also provided access to advanced instrumentation, close mentorship, and collaborative research opportunities that aligned perfectly with my interest in translating fundamental chemistry into practical, real-world applications.

What is a highlight of your grad school experience?

A major highlight of my graduate experience was successfully developing and validating functional selenium-modified electrodes and seeing consistent, reproducible electrochemical responses to biologically relevant oxidants. Additionally, mentoring junior students in the lab and presenting my work at research forums were especially rewarding moments that strengthened both my technical and leadership skills.

How do you hope your degree and research you’ve conducted will impact your career?

My degree and research have prepared me to pursue a career at the intersection of chemical sensing, biomedical research, and applied materials science. The skills I developed—electrode fabrication, electrochemical analysis, and mechanistic interpretation—position me well for roles in academia, industry R&D, or translational research environments focused on diagnostics, sensors, or advanced materials.

What advice would you give students interested in pursuing the grad program you were in?

I would advise students to enter the program with curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to think mechanistically. Graduate research, especially in experimental chemistry, requires patience and persistence. Seek strong mentorship, engage deeply with the literature, and do not be afraid to troubleshoot or redesign experiments. Most importantly, choose a research topic—like selenium chemistry—that genuinely interests you, because passion makes the challenges manageable and the successes meaningful.