My undergraduate student laboratory studies the role of sex hormone regulation on metabolism and obesity, particularly in males, females and females with low levels of estrogen, as seen in the post-menopausal period. My current project utilizes my expertise in measuring mitochondrial function from tissues. Further, with collaborators from Emory University, who specialize in analyzing cellular metabolomics, we plan to assess specific cellular metabolites. Understanding the sexual dimorphic differences in mitochondrial function, metabolomics and physiological changes will help elucidate the role of sex hormones in metabolism. I enjoy bringing trainees to conferences where they can practice professionalism and communicating scientific work. Overall, I hope to conduct high impact translation research while training and mentoring the next generation of biomedical researchers, particularly supporting women in science and medicine.
As I mentor students in basic science, I have often wondered what skills the students are learning—not just the science skills. This has led me into the study of teaching and learning (SoTL) research field. I am interested in understanding and quantifying transferable skill development through undergraduate research. The transferable skills learned through research are key in future student success in professional schools and their future careers. This research is focusing on defining the parameters of a true “undergraduate research experience” and how to best assess what skills students learn through the research process. This exciting research drives me to be a better mentor in my basic science research and improves my teaching of course based research classes, such as the Capstone course.
