Kira is a first-year Ph.D. student studying bead-woven materials. Kira grew up in Reading, Pennsylvania and received her Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Lafayette College. At Lafayette, she conducted research on 3D printed force sensors, which sparked her interest in the effects of structure on overall material properties when exposed to external stimuli. Her undergraduate senior thesis focused on integrating 3D printed capacitive sensors into an insole that could be used to detect limping. Kira also enjoys running, reading, and art, particularly drawing and painting.