Alumni Spotlight on Dr. Sharron Manuel

Dr. Sharron (Ronnie) Manuel, MS, PhD, MD is an alumna of the MS-RSM program, class of 2019. Her thesis research, mentored by Dr. Francesca Duncan, PhD, was focused on examining the age-associated relationship between collagen and hyaluronan content in the human ovary. Dr. Manuel is now an Assistant Professor in Ob/Gyn at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center of El Paso.

Name: Dr. Sharron Manuel, MS, MD, PhD

MS-RSM Class of 2019

Thesis mentor: Francesca Duncan, Ph.D. and Mary Ellen Pavone, M.D.

Thesis title: Examining the Age-Associated Relationship between Collagen and Hyaluronan Content in the Human Ovary

What is your connection to the CRS community (mentor and position) and what is your current position?

I was a former MS-RSM trainee who trained in Dr. Francesca Duncan’s lab, co-mentored by Dr. Duncan and Dr. Pavone.

Could you describe your current research/studies?

Currently I hold a faculty position as an assistant professor at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center of El Paso in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I spend approximately 40% of my time engaging in research. Our group is currently focusing on determining early markers in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in the adolescent Hispanic population and determining genetic signatures within the Hispanic population affected by PCOS.

What aspect(s) of CRS did you find most valuable?

The various guest speakers that were brought in to lecture at CRS and the connections made were invaluable.

What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist in CRS?

I loved the courses and teaching of Dr. Pamela Monahan as well as the hands-on lab course directed by Dr. Francesca Duncan. The knowledge and experience obtained through the curriculum provided a detailed understanding of reproductive medicine that I never would have received if I did not go through the MS-RSM program. It was truly an enlightening experience.

What would you recommend to junior scientists in order for them succeed in their scientific careers?​

Do not give up and always be inquisitive, as your question may lead to the next big scientific breakthrough.

What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field?

This is a loaded question, but hopefully a way to treat premature ovarian insufficiency, so that those affected are able to have their own genetically-related offspring.

Do you have any notable stories from your time in CRS?

Some of my favorite times during my time at CRS were spending time in the Duncan lab. I had some of the best lab mates and despite having to work hard, we also knew how to enjoy ourselves (occasionally having lab dance parties) and support each other. I also really enjoy mentoring undergraduate students and watching them grow and accomplish tremendous achievements. My favorite part of my CRS experience was presenting at annual Society for the Study of Reproduction conference in 2019. I was extremely nervous, but all went well and to see Francesca’s face at the end of the presentation was priceless and was one of my proudest moments.