People

Dr. Jorge Manrique Castro is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). Dr. Castro received the B.S. degree in Electronics Engineering from the National University of Colombia in 2007, the Master in Business Administration degree from the University of Valle in 2018, and the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Central Florida in 2022 and 2023, respectively. He leads the Castro Lab, where he spearheads innovative research in Biomedical Micro Electromechanical Systems (BioMEMS).

Before transitioning from industry to the academic world he worked in the electronic instrumentation field for more than 10 years in technical and managerial roles implementing sensors, transducers, and data acquisition systems from different manufacturers. His professional activities were focused in industrial process control, measurement and monitoring of operational variables within the energy, environmental, and manufacturing fields. With a robust background in micro- and nano-fabrication processes, Dr. Castro's work focuses on developing advanced technologies for healthcare applications, including biosensors, wearable devices, and implantable MEMS/NEMS.

His research has garnered significant recognition and funding from prestigious organizations such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Castro has published numerous high-impact journal articles and conference papers, contributing valuable insights to the fields of biomedical engineering and microfabrication community. Additionally, he holds patents related to innovative microfabrication processes and biomedical devices. Dr. Castro research have been also recognized and awarded in the IEEE MEMS 2022 (Best Paper), IEEE MEMS 2023 (Outstading Finalist), MIST 2023 (Best Poster), and Hilton Head Microsystems 2024 (Oustanding Finalist).

Dr. Castro is dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers. His lab provides a dynamic and supportive environment for students to engage in cutting-edge research and develop advanced skills in bioengineering and microfabrication.
For more information about Dr. Castro and his work, please visit the Castro Lab's webpage:  Castro Lab Webpage

Gustavo Medina is an electrical engineer from The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). He is now pursuing advanced research in semiconductor physics, nanofabrication, and biomedical applications. His academic journey has been enriched by hands-on research at the W.M. Keck Center for 3D Innovation, where he developed real-time monitoring systems for ceramic robocasting, to significantly enhance additive manufacturing precision and reliability. His current research interests are focused on leveraging cutting-edge nano and micro fabrication techniques to develop advanced bioelectronic devices, such as wearable and implantable sensors, for healthcare applications. 

Co-advised with Dr. Eric A. Freudenthal

Kevin Biosketch 

Allan Biosketch 

Steven Sanchez is a mechanical engineer from The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), currently pursuing his Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering under the mentorship of Dr. Jorge E. Manrique Castro. His academic and professional background blends mechanical design, additive manufacturing, and user-centered development, with hands-on experience gained through research at the W.M. Keck Center for 3D Innovation and technical support at the GAIA Makerspace. Steven has led and contributed to projects ranging from catheter handle mechanisms to sensor-integrated assistive devices. His research interests lie primarily in wearable assistive technologies, aiming to bridge engineering and medicine to create impactful, real-world solutions for underserved communities and veterans. 

Yamilet Rocha is an Electrical Engineering Student at The University of Texas at El Paso, with plans to soon concentrate in a biomedical-related field as part of her bachelor’s degree, alongside a minor in Computer Engineering. With a strong foundation in electrical and embedded systems, she is expanding her focus to electrochemical applications, particularly in the development of bioelectronic devices and sensor technologies. Yamilet's academic interests also include Software-Defined Radio (SDR) and semiconductor technology, which she is passionate about for their potential to innovate wireless communication and electronics. Her hands-on experience with energy-efficient systems, embedded design, and semiconductor devices is guiding her transition into electrochemistry, where she aims to create innovative solutions that integrate electrical engineering with healthcare and environmental technologies. 

Paulina Olivas is an undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at The University of Texas at El Paso, with a minor in Biomedical Engineering. Her academic focus is on the intersection of electrical systems and healthcare technologies, with interests ranging from microdevices and diagnostic equipment to emerging fields like robotics, nanotechnology, and machine learning. Currently developing her skills in circuit and system design, Paulina is committed to building a strong technical foundation to support her future research goals. She is passionate about contributing to advancements through engineering innovation and plans to pursue graduate studies in Biomedical Engineering to specialize further in the development of medical technologies.

Luis Rodriguez is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at The University of Texas at El Paso, specializing in Fields and Devices. As part of his academic journey, he is also enrolled in the Fast-Track program, which will facilitate his transition into a Master’s degree. Luis’s academic passions are centered around Semiconductor Fabrication and Nanotechnology, where he seeks the potential of these technologies to develop powerful materials and improve the efficiency and performance of modern electronic systems. He aims to cultivate both analytical and practical skills to further his knowledge and expertise. His goal is to contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that will drive progress in these fields, benefiting industries ranging from electronics to healthcare.

Carlos Martinez is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at The University of Texas at El Paso. His academic interests focus on circuit and chip design, with a particular passion for transistors, semiconductor devices, and emerging technologies in nanotechnology. He is driven by the challenge of designing efficient electronic systems and aims to contribute to advancements in microelectronics and integrated circuit technology. Through his education and hands-on experience, he aspires to pursue a career in the semiconductor or electronics industry, where he can help develop next-generation hardware solutions that push the boundaries of performance and miniaturization.