CRS Scientist Spotlight on Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone

Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone, MD, is an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Reproductive Endo and Infertility) and well as the Medical Director for Northwestern’s IVF program. She is involved in variety of research projects on ovarian aging, the ovarian micro-environment and improving IVF outcomes. Dr. Pavone also mentors MS-RSM students.

What brought you to join the CRS community and what is your current position? 

I am currently an Associate Professor, and a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility physician.  I also serve as the Medical Director for Northwestern’s IVF program.  I initially joined as faculty after finishing my Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at Northwestern.  I thought it would be the right place to continue my research as well as to grow my clinical practice. 

Could you describe your research? 

I am involved in a variety of research projects, both clinical and translational, seeking to better understand ovarian aging, the ovarian micro-environment and improving IVF outcomes. 

What aspect(s) of CRS do you find most valuable or look forward to engaging in?  

I enjoy the collaborations with various faculty and the ability to mentor up and coming scientists. 

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

I have an MSCI degree, and as part of the course work I took a writing course that I thought was great!  It not only gave me a structure to use when writing papers, but we also learned about the entire peer review process.   

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

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Be curious.  If you find an unexpected finding, explore it.  Make a hypothesis, but don’t be upset if your hypothesis is wrong, it may just be taking you in a different direction.   

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

There is still so much to learn about ovarian aging and how it affects fertility.  I hope that we can make some breakthroughs in better understanding this important topic! 

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?   

Yes!  I grew up dancing (ballet) and take ballet and barre classes regularly and watch all kinds of dance performances throughout Chicago!  I am a member of the Joffrey Women’s Board as well!  I have 2 children (ages 4 and 7) who keep me busy, and I have started listening to audiobooks.  I also enjoy cooking and baking, and recently found a delicious “brookies” recipe if anyone is interested!