Kayin Davis

Kayin Davis

Biography

Kayin Davis is a native of Maplewood, New Jersey, pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering as a member of Howard University’s Karsh STEM Scholars PhD Pathway Program. He plans to obtain a PhD in biomechanical engineering, so that he can utilize mechanical engineering principles to research medical devices and surgical technologies. He wants to be at the forefront of innovation in medical technology that aims to both save and improve lives across the world.

Kayin has consistently engaged in research throughout his time at Howard and in summer research programs, allowing him to develop strong skills in both experimental and computational research. He has experience in materials science research, where he used Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy to analyze samples of twisted bilayer graphene that he assembled using graphene grown via chemical vapor deposition. He has also utilized ANSYS (primarily ANSYS Mechanical and Thermal Desktop) on multiple other research projects, where he has simulated tests measuring the temperature-dependent resistivity of superconductive materials as they approach cryogenic temperatures, and has analyzed the thermal effects of radiation on a cryostat gondola designed to cool a gamma-ray telescope during an upcoming stratospheric flight.

Kayin chose to attend Howard because of its uniquely supportive community that he believes will allow him to grow into someone who both can and will have a significant impact on people’s lives. Being surrounded by like-minded students with similar goals has allowed him to learn from them and grow towards being the best-possible version of himself, both academically and personally.
Outside of academia, Kayin finds joy in being active through weight training, playing sports, and outdoor activities like running, hiking, and skiing. He is also passionate about music, particularly jazz, which he both listens to and plays as a drummer in his free time.