CRS Scientist Spotlight on Dr. David Zee
I’ve been fortunate to learn from scientists who are great at communicating their research to scientists outside their immediate field, and even to non-scientists.
David Zee, PhD
David Zee, PhD, is a postdoctoral fellow in Dr. Thomas O'Halloran's lab. His research is focused on developing quantitative tools for mapping metal ions in tissue.
What is your current position?
I am currently a NRSA Postdoctoral Fellow in the O’Halloran Lab at the Chemistry of Life Processes Institute at Northwestern University.
Could you describe your research?
My research in the O’Halloran lab is focused on developing quantitative tools for mapping metal ions in tissue. There are two projects I am particularly passionate about and relevant to the CRS community. The first project is to develop zinc-binding photoacoustic probes and use ovarian tissue as a testbed to image changes in free Zn2+ during follicle development. The second project is to investigate the biological role(s) of manganese ions in sea urchin gametes.
What aspect(s) of CRS do you find most valuable or look forward to engaging in?
Being classically trained as chemist, the CRS Reproductive Research Updates have opened my eyes to a whole new world of science! I love learning from scientists with wholly different perspectives, ideas, and experiences.
What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a scientist?
I’ve been fortunate to learn from scientists who are great at communicating their research to scientists outside their immediate field, and even to non-scientists. Distilling complex ideas into digestible nuggets engages people and is really helpful for writing grants too.
What would you recommend to junior scientists in order for them to succeed in their scientific careers?
Keep a detailed lab notebook! It will be so incredibly helpful down the road when you write up your papers and your thesis. Also, graduate school is incredibly stressful and can be isolating. It is important to take care of your mental health and I recommend everyone to give therapy a try.
What do you think will be the next big contribution in your field?
I think the next big step in Chemistry will be recognizing how chemical reactions and movement of individual atoms, ions, and molecules are hierarchically organized into something that can be identified as a living system.
What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?
I have a 2-year-old son who keeps me very, very busy! We often go to the park and the local bakeries together. I also enjoy cooking, playing videogames, doing the New York Times Crossword, and relaxing with my wife and my cat.