CRS Scientist Spotlight on Hannah McDowell

Hannah McDowell, MS, is a PhD candidate in Dr. Monica Laronda's lab. She is also a CRS T32 trainee. Hannah's research focuses on the role of chemotherapy-induced neo-angiogenesis in primordial follicle activation. 

Thesis mentor: Monica Laronda, PhD

Thesis title: "Determining the role of chemotherapy-induced neo-angiogenesis in primordial follicle activation" 

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

I am a second-year DGP student in Dr. Monica Laronda’s lab. Before joining the Reproductive Science community, I was interested in the mechanism of cancer metastasis and endocrinology. While conducting research at my undergraduate university, I started following Teresa Woodruff’s work and decided to apply for a master’s in biotechnology at Northwestern. I chose to take a reproductive elective during my master’s and had the opportunity to listen to a talk by Hannes Campos, who discussed his work on the Lattice system. This talk re-sparked my interest in applying technological advancements to improve research in women’s health. I’m very fortunate to have joined Dr. Laronda’s lab where I’m studying the role of chemotherapy-induced neo-angiogenesis in primordial follicle activation.  

Could you describe your research? 

My research is focused on ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and subsequent transplantation (OTT) of cortical tissue for hormonal and fertility restoration. Although most primordial follicles survive the cryopreservation process, 80% are lost post-transplantation thereby reducing tissue longevity. My interest lies in defining the mechanism by which primordial follicles are activated or depleted post-transplantation.  

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

I love that the CRS community is full of individuals that are willing to collaborate and provide ample advice. The department is full of enthusiastic scientists that wholeheartedly want you to succeed. I feel so comfortable and supported by all members of the CRS community.   

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

At this point in my career, I would say the most valuable aspect of my training has been the weekly Reproductive Research Updates (RRU) and the opportunity to be part of the CRS training grant. Considering I was not involved in reproductive science before graduate school, RRU has taught me so much about reproductive biology. Additionally, I’ve been able to meet such wonderful scientists through the CRS T32. I feel that I have plenty of chances to learn about areas outside of my specific niche which helps me grow as a reproductive scientist.   

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

Scientists love to talk about science, so ask all the questions you can!  

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

I think that the scientific community as a whole is moving away from in-vivo studies, as such we will move towards applying different bio-engineering and technological approaches to answer major questions.  

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?   

I love to garden and listen to true crime podcasts