CRS Scientist Spotlight on Tim You

Tim You is an MSTP student in Dr. Serdar Bulun's lab. His research focuses on the role of estrogen and progesterone in skeletal muscle.

Thesis mentor: Serdar Bulun, MD

Thesis title: Role of progesterone signaling in abdominal muscle fibrosis and inguinal hernia development 

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

When I was initially applying to grad school, my interest in reproductive endocrinology drew me to Northwestern and to CRS in particular. I am currently in my second year of graduate school as an MD/PhD student in the Bulun lab, and the CRS community continues to be an excellent source of support and mentorship. 

Could you describe your research? 

I study the role of estrogen and progesterone in skeletal muscle. Specifically, I am looking at how estrogen/progesterone signaling in abdominal muscle fibroblasts leads to abdominal wall weakness and development of inguinal hernias. I am also interested in the general mechanism of fibrosis/wound healing and how hormones like estrogen and progesterone affect these processes. 

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

The Reproductive Research Updates have given me a great way to learn more about the research of my peers while also informing my own work. 

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

The mentorship and diverse perspectives offered by the CRS community. My interactions with clinicians, mentors, and peers have helped greatly improve my understanding of reproductive science and medicine. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to young scientists starting in their journey in science? 

Get as many perspectives as you can and don’t be afraid to move out of your comfort zone. 

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

I think new technologies for large-scale-omics analyses are reshaping the way we think about heterogeneity and communication at a cell and tissue level. I’m excited to see how all this new information will change our understanding of reproductive disease and potentially lead to novel treatments. 

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab? 

I enjoy playing the violin in my spare time and am part of the Northwestern Medical Orchestra. I also enjoy running along the Lakefront and spending time with family in Chicago.