CRS Scientist Spotlight on Maddie Perry
One piece of advice I would give to young scientists starting their journey in science is to leave all of your doors open as there is no one-way to achieve your goals.
Maddie Perry
MS-RSM Student
Maddie Perry is a first year MS-RSM student. She is completing the thesis track, conducting research with Dr. Aubrey Converse. Her thesis research focuses on profiling multi-nucleated giant cells (MNGCs) in the aging ovarian microenvironment.
Thesis title: "Investigating multi-nucleated giant cells (MNGCs) as a hallmark of ovarian aging"
What brought you to join the CRS community and what is your current position?
During my senior year of college, I began my deep dive into reproductive science, focusing on the effects of hormonal contraceptives on HPA axis dysregulation. Throughout this work, I couldn’t seem to pull myself away. I loved it and was in awe of how much I was learning and absorbing in such a short amount of time. I knew I had a calling to reproductive science and came across the CRS community through my search and immediately reached out. From the first interaction I had with the CRS community and the MS-RSM program, I knew I had found the right place for me, and it has been a fantastic journey as a first year master’s student in the Master of Science in Reproductive Science and Medicine program. I am constantly challenged and amazed by the research we do and the questions we ask. The CRS community is one of dedicated, passionate, and enthusiastic learners!
Could you describe your research?
My thesis project aims to profile multi-nucleated giant cells (MNGCs) in the aging ovarian microenvironment. I am interested in characterizing the MNGC milieu as a way to investigate the roles in which MNGCs are implicated in the aging ovary. Additionally, I am interested in further evaluating the behavior of transmembrane glycoprotein nmb (Gpnmb) in MNGC function and its potential impact in the aging ovary. Gpnmb is up-regulated in the aging ovary, so further assessing its potential interactions with MNGCs can provide valuable information in the overall process of aging in the ovary.
What aspect(s) of CRS do you find most valuable?
I find the commitment to growing a holistic knowledge repertoire as one of the most valuable aspects of CRS. Our dynamic, collaborative, and expansive research profile not only prepares young trainees on the bench, but provides individuals with the foundational skills to be able to effectively communicate their work. Especially in the modern era, your work is only as impactful as your ability to communicate the research. Knowing when and how to express your research is an important skill that CRS emphasizes, aiding in young trainees’ commitment and excitement for reproductive science.
What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist?
One of the most valuable aspects of my training as a reproductive scientist has been practicing my technical bench skills. I love high-level ideas and translating ideas into purpose and impact, but to understand these capabilities, having a technical understanding is important. Building and refining my technical skills has provided me a huge sense of confidence in my deeper understanding of science.
What is one piece of advice you would give to young scientists starting in their journey in science?
One piece of advice I would give to young scientists starting their journey in science is to leave all of your doors open as there is no one-way to achieve your goals. Your interests can be rapidly evolving so take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. You never know what new topic, new project, or new path you may encounter throughout your scientific career.
What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field?
I think the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field is finding a novel non-hormonal contraceptive. Coinciding with this research, I think we are noticing a shift in deciphering and targeting root causes of biology, rather than treating the symptoms. I think we will see an expansion of reproductive biology research focused on determining the underlying mechanisms of contraceptive function, endometriosis, PCOS, ovarian aging, etc. so we can research novel therapeutics.
What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?
Outside of the lab, I love being with my friends, trying new food, running, and reading! I especially enjoy hopping on the lakefront trail right outside the doors from lab and getting in a run right on Lake Michigan or in Lincoln Park!