Alumni Spotlight on Monica Elabed, MS

Monica Elabed, MS, is an MS-RSM graduate, Class of 2020. She conducted non-thesis research with Dr. Pamela Monahan, PhD. She is currently Director of Business Development at Smithers Cannabis Testing Division.

Mentor: Pamela Monahan, PhD

Project title: Characterization of vascular defects in placental development in a rat model of preeclampsia

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

I completed the Masters in Reproductive Science and Medicine Program in 2020. While at Northwestern, I worked with Dr. Pam Monahan to investigate the alterations in key regulators of angiogenesis that play a role in the development of abnormal vasculature in an induced preeclamptic rat model. I am currently Director of Business Development at Smithers Cannabis Testing Division.

Could you describe your current research/studies?

I’m currently applying to Business Administration PhD programs. I’d like to focus on Science Operations Management and International Business during my studies.

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

The community – I always found the RRU events that were held every Wednesday interesting and insightful. It was amazing to see what reproductive researchers at Northwestern are currently working on. The discussions that ensued between students, researchers, and professors at these events were incredibly beneficial and challenged me to grow as a scientist and professional in the field.

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

The most valuable aspect has been seeing your hard work be passed down to the next group of reproductive scientists that will hopefully pay a small contribution to either finding the etiology or cure to a black box disorder or disease like preeclampsia. Even though it might be a small contribution – it’s a still a baby step closer to saving someone’s life.

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

Keep asking questions. As Einstein always said, “The most important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”

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

Not exactly sure but reproductive science has my heart so I’m looking forward to see what will be the next big thing.

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

I have made a couple lifelong friends from this program so the stories are endless. However, there was never a dull day at CRS.