Alumni Spotlight on Mackenzie Roberts

Mackenzie Roberts is an MS-RSM graduate, Class of 2020. She completed the non-thesis track and conducted research with Dr. Pamela Monahan, PhD. She is currently a Senior Research Assistant at the Oregon National Primate Research Center. 

Mentor: Dr. Pamela Monahan, PhD 

Project Title: Notch Signaling in the Granulosa Cell of the Ovary

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

I’m an MS-RSM Alumni (graduated 2020), and was a mentor for the 2020-2021 academic year. Currently, I’m a Senior Research Assistant at the Oregon National Primate Research Center just outside Portland, Oregon.  

Could you describe your current research/studies? 

My current research is focused on elucidating the cellular biology and molecular mechanisms of endocervical cells in order to develop non-hormonal contraceptives. This work involves the generation and maintenance of primary primate cell culture, identifying hormonally regulated ion channel gene expression in the endocervix, as well as high-throughput screen development for candidate drug screening. Additionally, I get to work hands-on with non-human primates in a position with OPERM, a group focused on generating less-invasive methodologies of permanent contraception. The privilege of working with Hamadryas baboons is easily the coolest part of my job.  

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

I continually find the CRS community to be valuable, however from my time at Northwestern, I really enjoyed the collaborative environment within the MS-RSM group. The connections and friends I’ve made within the program are invaluable to me personally and professionally. 

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

Beyond the wet-lab research skills CRS introduced me to, I still utilize the diligence and attention to detail instilled in me in the program on a daily basis. “If it’s not in the lab notebook it didn’t happen” is a mantra I still live by, and teach to new team members entering our lab. 

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

I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned from my first couple years (and try to impart on others) is to not take experimental outcomes personally. Science and people are never perfect, and mistakes are opportunities for growth and discovery. Also, never be afraid to network! Chatting with strangers can definitely be intimidating, but in this relatively small field it’s vital.  

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

I’m probably biased, but I’m genuinely excited about the next generation of contraceptives available for individuals seeking to take agency in their reproductive health.  

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

My favorite moment in CRS was performing ICSI successfully on the first try with hamster oocytes. The elation to do a delicate procedure well was definitely a highlight of my CRS experience.