Welcoming the 10th MS-RSM Cohort
As we celebrate the 10th cohort of the Master of Science in Reproductive Science and Medicine program, we are thrilled to introduce the exceptional group of students embarking on this journey. Each of our seventeen trainees brings a unique blend of personal experiences, academic accomplishments, and professional goals. Together, they represent not only a milestone in the program’s history but also the future of reproductive science and medicine, with passions ranging from clinical embryology to reproductive justice advocacy, from molecular biology to global health equity. 
Our Illinois connections continue to shine in this year’s class. Cait Egan, raised in Oak Park, IL, brings her kinesiology background and clinical experience in hospital exercise programs, aiming to gain laboratory experience to become an embryologist and later a physician’s associate. Iris Mutiu, from Sibiu, Romania, and raised in Schaumburg, IL, has a background in molecular and cellular biology, with research experience in HIV and glioblastoma; she aspires to continue her research in female reproductive health. Caroline Chapon, from Evanston, IL, studied biology, neuroscience, and global health at Macalester College and hopes to gain foundational knowledge and determine her next steps in reproductive medicine. Devin Thomas, from Chicago, IL, earned a B.S. from Mount Mary University and has research experience in otolaryngology; she aims to pursue a Ph.D. in reproductive science or enhance her skills for clinical work. Alicia Lynch, born and raised in Chicago, IL, holds a B.S. in Biology from Denison University and brings OBGYN research experience; she hopes to explore diverse career opportunities in reproductive science, biotech, and fertility care. Sera Balkir (she/her), from Chicago, IL, recently graduated from Duke University with a B.S. in Neuroscience and minors in Chemistry and Global Health; she aspires to combine clinical research and women’s health interests before entering medical school as a physician-scientist.
The Midwest is further represented by Madyson Voigt, from Wisconsin Dells, who studied Nutrition at UW-Madison and brings clinical experience from gynecology oncology nursing; she plans to attend medical school with an interest in reproductive endocrinology or maternal-fetal medicine and has joined the inaugural class of the MS-RSM/MBH dual degree program. Joey Esparza from Holland, MI, studied microbiology at Michigan State University and has research experience in reproductive immunology; he aspires to earn a Ph.D. and contribute broadly to reproductive science. Mohammad Karzon, from Jerusalem and raised in Milwaukee, WI, studied Cellular and Molecular Biology and aims to become an embryologist in reproductive medicine.
Our U.S. trainees span from coast to coast. Manek Khedia, from Claremont, CA, is a recent biochemistry graduate from Tufts University, motivated by personal experiences with reproductive health and aims to become an OB-GYN in Southern California. From Anchorage, Alaska, Cailey Winn holds a B.S. in Physiology and Developmental Biology and hopes to pursue medical training in maternal-fetal medicine and fetal surgery. Catherine Chin, from South Pasadena, CA, studied biology and is motivated to deepen her knowledge of clinical IVF practices. Gloria Kim, born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Bethesda, MD, earned a B.S. in Bioengineering and hopes to pursue a doctorate focused on uterine conditions, combining research with targeted clinical applications. Zainab Ghani, from Woodland, CA, studied Biological Sciences at CSU Sacramento and aspires to a career as a physician-scientist in obstetrics and gynecology. Aderola Popoola, from Lakewood, NJ, holds a B.S. in Biological Sciences from Rowan University and plans to become an embryologist.
This year’s cohort also brings strong international representation. Beatrice Piras, from Rome, Italy, studied Biology of Human and Environmental Health at the University of Padova and has research experience in immunology; she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in reproductive biology and is also part of the inaugural class of the MS-RSM/MBH dual degree program. Finally, Netra Patel, from Vadodara, Gujarat, India, joins us with a strong foundation in biomedical sciences, including research on Rho GTPases in the context of endometriosis. She hopes to pursue a career in assisted reproductive technologies as an embryologist.
Together, this 10th MS-RSM cohort embodies the global reach and interdisciplinary spirit of the program. Their collective passion spans continents and fields, from the laboratory bench to the clinic, from policy work to patient advocacy. With their diverse experiences and shared commitment to advancing reproductive science and medicine, they are poised to make meaningful contributions to the field. We are excited to witness their growth and achievements in the years ahead!