Alumni Spotlight on Dr. Pei-Chih Lee
The most valuable training for me was critical thinking and the ability to solve problems. These skills are vital to overcome various challenges we face working with different species.
Dr. Pei-Chih Lee, PhD
Dr. Pei-Chih Lee, PhD, is a CRS Alumna and former PhD student in Dr. Carole LaBonne's lab. She received her PhD in 2012. Dr Lee is now a Research Biologist the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute where she is working to establish and expand genome resource banks for rare and endangered species.
What is your connection to the CRS community (mentor and position) and what is your current position?
I was an IBiS student and completed my PhD in Dr. Carole LaBonne’s lab in 2012. Currently I am a Research Biologist in Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
Could you describe your current research?
The goal of my work is to establish and expand genome resource banks for rare and endangered species. My main research focuses on developing new gamete preservation techniques that are more cost-effective for long-term storage. I also study oocyte development and competence acquisition in the cat model to gain knowledge necessary for developing assisted reproductive techniques in feline species.
What aspect(s) of CRS did you find most valuable?
I appreciate the network of people that I can seek support and guidance in my career development. I’m deeply grateful to have had mentors like Teresa Woodruff and Kelly Mayo who offered tremendous advice and help for me to pursuit my passion.
What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist in CRS?
The most valuable training for me was critical thinking and the ability to solve problems. These skills are vital to overcome various challenges we face working with different species.
What would you recommend to junior scientists in order for them succeed in their scientific careers?
Take advantage of the resources around you, such as the training, expertise and connections from the CRS community. And be open to explore different opportunities, you may find that there is more than one path to success.
What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field?
Being a conservation biologist, I believe that advances in techniques such as in vitro gametogenesis have enormous potential to contribute to saving species.
Do you have any notable stories from your time in CRS?
I enjoyed helping out with Oncofertility Saturday Academy. It was a unique experience to teach those high school girls and always interesting to see their genuine excitement and heartwarming response to their first exposure to reproductive biology research.