At a time when scientific breakthroughs are shaping the future of medicine, Hector J. Garcia Early College High School senior Pablo Guzman is already making his mark in the field of biomedical research. Through his dedication and collaborative efforts, Guzman has developed a new composite material with promising applications in cancer treatment, an achievement that has garnered recognition from the American Chemical Society (ACS) Biomaterials. His soon-to-be-published work exemplifies the potential of young researchers to contribute meaningful advancements to science, setting a new standard for student-led innovation in the medical field.
Guzman played a critical role in the research, from conceptualizing the composite material to carrying out the majority of the experiments. His expertise with graphene and biomaterials led to an invitation to contribute to an ACS Biomaterials review article, further solidifying his position as a young scientist to watch. “The initial background research and coming up with a new composite material was brutal,” said Guzman, who read nearly 90 scientific articles to identify materials that had never been used in biomedical applications. “But the experience has solidified my choice of career, as I have loved the scientific process in practice.”
His passion for science is deeply personal. Having witnessed the impact of cancer firsthand within his family, Guzman was motivated to make a difference in the field. His research involved extensive characterization testing and hands-on experimentation, skills he hopes to refine further as he pursues higher education. "I have always been interested in what things were made of, and considering that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and my own family history, it felt like an issue that I should and could contribute to," he said.
Beyond his groundbreaking research, Guzman has built an impressive resume filled with leadership roles, academic excellence, and hands-on experience. His passion for biomedical science, engineering, and sustainability has led to innovative projects, including a quantum dot detector for tumor mass detection and a thermoelectric generator system that repurposes excess server heat for auxiliary power. His work in composite hydrogel films, a nano drug delivery system targeting melanoma, represents a promising advancement in non-invasive cancer treatment. Through these projects, he has applied advanced scientific concepts while refining his problem-solving and technical expertise.
As Head Engineer for the Garcia Early College High School Robotics Team, Guzman has led the design and optimization of robotic systems for competition. His leadership extends beyond engineering, as he is also an active member of the National Honor Society, upholding values of scholarship, service, and integrity.
The dedication required to conduct this research was no small feat. Guzman spent countless hours in the lab, carefully analyzing data and ensuring the accuracy of his findings. His work extends beyond research, as he is actively involved in mentoring aspiring young scientists, helping them navigate the world of scientific exploration. Guzman understands that behind every published study are long days of meticulous work, and he is eager to share this reality with his peers. "Being the progenitor of a new composite material means that for the foreseeable future, your life is this new material. I have spent many days fully in the lab, running long, arduous experiments to get the proper characterization data," he explained.
Guzman currently runs a program designed to introduce young students to laboratory work and connect them with research advisors. Through this initiative, he hopes to encourage more students to take an early interest in scientific research, ensuring they have the guidance and exposure needed to succeed. "Exposure is key. Get your connections. Get in the lab early.," he emphasized. "I want more of my peers to start doing their own research, and that’s why I started my program. Without access to these opportunities, young researchers won’t get a leg up on their goals."
GECHS Principal Margarita Taboada commended his dedication and impact, stating, "Pablo is a shining example of what our students can achieve when they are given the right resources and support. His drive and passion for research are truly remarkable, and we are incredibly proud of what he has accomplished at such a young age."
With aspirations to publish additional research papers during his undergraduate years and ultimately earn a Ph.D., Guzman sets the foundation for a future dedicated to scientific innovation. He will attend Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, this fall and pursue a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Additionally, his work inspires students across the Laredo Independent School District, proving that with initiative, dedication, and the right support, young researchers can achieve remarkable success.
