Lara Varma
About
Biography
Lara Varma is a mechanical engineer and researcher advancing innovation in medical devices and healthcare technology. Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Yale University as a Biomedical Engineering Healthcare and Innovation Fellow, she previously graduated cum laude from Drexel University with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, earning recognition as a Division I scholar-athlete.
Her work spans designing FDA-compliant medical devices, developing robotics systems, and implementing sustainable energy solutions. Lara currently leads groundbreaking research at Yale, spearheading the design of a novel post-surgical pain management device through FDA regulatory approval. A former professional squash player ranked 275th worldwide, she channels her competitive drive into mentoring young athletes and fostering community through leadership roles. Whether in the engineering lab or on the squash court, Lara combines technical expertise, innovative thinking, and unwavering dedication to drive meaningful impact.
Education & Training
- BS
- Drexel University, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (2023)
Research
Overview
At Yale School of Engineering, I'm leading the development of a novel pain pump system designed specifically for post-surgical and inpatient settings. This project centers on a Patient Controlled Dispenser & Deactivator (PCDD), which we're advancing through the FDA 510k approval process.
Our development process involves comprehensive collaboration with multiple stakeholders including Dr. Daniel Wiznia, Dr. Jinlei Li, Dr. Claudia See, and Nectar Product Development, a specialized medical device contract engineering firm. The team structure integrates software engineers, design engineers, biomedical engineers, nurses, anesthesiologists, and surgeons, ensuring a thorough approach to device development.
A significant portion of my work involves navigating the regulatory landscape. I've prepared Pre-Submission applications for FDA review to secure feedback on regulatory requirements and our clinical testing strategy. This includes developing and documenting design inputs, creating verification test plans and protocols, and maintaining strict adherence to ISO-13485 documentation standards for validation testing.
We're currently working toward conducting clinical trials in the hospital post-surgical ward, which has required careful preparation of IRB documentation and protocol development. The project also involves extensive testing equipment assembly and calibration to ensure precise and reliable data collection.
I've had the opportunity to share this research through guest lectures in Yale's engineering program, presenting to both freshman and sophomore students to demonstrate real-world applications of medical device development principles.