CRS Scientist Spotlight on Cassandra Huerta

Cassandra Huerta is a second year MS-RSM student in Dr. Julie Kim's lab. Her master's thesis focuses on the development of a novel model system for endometriosis using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). 

Thesis mentor:  J. Julie Kim, PhD 

Thesis title: Directed Differentiation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Provides a Novel Model for Endometriosis  

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

Following my undergraduate, which was divided between biology and music, I wanted to fully be a part of cutting-edge science that addressed unmet need in endometriosis. I just earned my master’s degree from the Master of Reproductive Science and Medicine (MS-RSM) program’s thesis track in February and am now completing my contributions to the exciting project I took part in before deciding how to move forward in the fall.  

Could you describe your research? 

My research in Professor Julie Kim’s lab aids in the development of a novel model system for endometriosis using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Endometriosis is an incredibly heterogenous disease with complex, multi-factorial etiology. By differentiating patient iPSCs into endometrial cell types, we can study the development of endometriosis on an individual, genetic, and multicellular level. I am currently working on the differentiation of our iPSCs into endometrial epithelial cells.   

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

CRS is a highly collaborative community of reproductive scientists and clinicians who share a passion for reproductive science with translational impact. My exposure to everyone’s work and talents inside the lab, and within the community at large, has been extremely motivating.  

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

As a thesis student in the Kim Lab, I’ve had the incredible opportunity not only to work on a project that has required me to learn and become comfortable with challenging techniques, but to have access to lab mentors and collaborators who were willing to train me at a high-level and have my back when I needed help. I strongly feel that my time within the MS-RSM program has allowed me to regain momentum in my development as a scientist and push me in new directions I had not conceived of or was unable to go in before.   

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

I’ve found a lot of advice helpful recently, so am going to include a few things here. Take care of yourself; this means being honest about your likes and dislikes and what your needs are in and out of the lab. Trust yourself; place greater importance on your ability to work hard and overcome obstacles than on any label or expectation, positive or negative. I would be remiss not to include some of my favorite advice I’ve received during my time here: “science is all about learning how to fail gracefully (PM),” and, “run your own race (AA).” 

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

Reproductive biology encompasses a lot of diverse subfields, so this is difficult to predict. Acknowledging my bias here, I’m hoping to see more effective, less invasive treatment and diagnostic options for endometriosis patients. The development of functional, non-hormonal birth control methods for both sexes would also be a major advancement. I think too often, women are forced to accept a lower standard of living, whether from pain, diagnostic and treatment delays, or side-effects, and that reproductive scientists have a real responsibility to take an active role in reshaping this narrative. Hopefully, whatever the next big contribution is, we’ll be making progress in that way.   

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?   

Outside of the lab, I enjoy introverted activities like reading, writing, and music. Spending time with people who support and care about me is also invaluable.