PhD student uses engineering to understand cardiovascular system

Mechanical engineering student works to improve diagnostic tools

Named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the College of Engineering and Applied Science, Shrayesh Manegaonkar is driven by the possibility of improving lives. Focusing on biofluid mechanics, his research at the University of Cincinnati aims to develop better diagnostic tools for various cardiovascular diseases.

Why did you choose UC? What drew you here?

Why did you choose your field of study?

I chose mechanical engineering and specifically biofluid mechanics because it lets me combine problem-solving with meaningful impact. I've always been fascinated by the human body, especially the cardiovascular system, and engineering gives me the tools to understand it better so I can contribute to developing better diagnostic approaches towards complex diseases. This field allows me to contribute to innovations that directly affect patients' lives.

Briefly describe your research work. What problems do you hope to solve?

During my master's, I worked on the pressure-drop coefficient, a metric deveoloped to improve the diagnosis of epicardial stenosis and microvascular disease. For my PhD, I am advancing the aortic valve coefficient as a diagnostic index for aortic stenosis, particularly in low-flow, low-gradient cases. I am motivated by the clinical need for more reliable, physiology-based diagnostic tools. My goal is to help reduce diagnostic uncertainty and support more accurate, timely treatment decisions for cardiovascular patients.

What are some of the most impactful experiences during your time at UC?

I've had several impactful experiences throughout my time as a Bearcat. I've had the opportunity to present my work at several major conferences, including Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics, SB3C, and the Biomedical Engineering Society conference. These experiences greatly strengthened my confidence and visibility as a young researcher. On campus, I've been able to serve as a teaching assistant for several undergraduate courses and work directly with cardiologists at UC Medical Center on real patient data. Other highlights include being selected for the P&G Digital Accelerator @ UC and working as a building supervisor at the campus recreation center.

What are a few of your accomplishments of which you are most proud?

I am proud of being named a finalist at the student paper competition at both the master's and PhD level at the SB3C conference. Being able to give podium presentations for three consecutive years at the Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics conference, getting a couple of peer-reviewed journal publications and conference publications, being awarded Graduate Student Engineer of the Month, and being selected for a competitive Digital Accelerator project involving vision-based tactile sensors and machine learning are accomplishments I'm proud of. Most importantly, gaining a reputation as a reliable teaching assistant and instructor, so students can come and ask whatever doubts they have. I enjoy teaching and feel privileged that I can share my knowledge to the next generation.

When do you expect to graduate? What are your plans after earning your degree?

I expect to graduate with my PhD by the fall of 2026. After earning my degree, I hope to continue working at the intersection of cardiovascular diagnostics, medical devices, and translational research - either in industry or academia. My long-term goal is to contribute to technologies that meaningfully improve cardiovascular care.

Do you have any other hobbies or involvements you'd like to share?

Outside research, I enjoy anime, reading Harry Potter and Agatha Christie novels and watching Friends to unwind. I love cooking, staying active at the gym, and spending time with close friends and family. I'm also passionate about gardening - I keep more than 40 indoor plants and am a member of the Plant Club with the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library. I enjoy hiking, mountain climbing, and camping, and I am actively involved with International Friendships, Inc. Cincinnati. Additionally, I like organizing community engagement events, as giving back and helping others is something I truly value.

Featured image at top: Shrayesh Manegaonkar was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the College of Engineering and Applied Science. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC

Related Stories