CRS Scientist Spotlight on Sierra Orr

Sierra Orr is second year MS-RSM student in Dr. Erin Rowell's lab. Her thesis research focuses on differences in the referral and utilization rate of fertility preservation in a pediatric population, across different sociodemographic backgrounds.

Thesis mentor: Erin Rowell, MD

Thesis title: "Sociodemographics in Referral and Utilization Rates of Fertility Preservation in a Pediatric Population"

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

I joined the CRS community through the MS-RSM program, where I am a current second-year master's student. I came to the program due to my interest in learning more about reproductive health and disparities within the healthcare system.

Could you describe your research?

I currently do research at Lurie Children’s Hospital under the guidance of Dr. Erin Rowell. My work is done under the Fertility & Hormone Preservation & Restoration program, where I am studying if there are differences in the referral and utilization rate of fertility preservation (FP) in a pediatric population, across different sociodemographic backgrounds.

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

The interconnectedness of the CRS community is most valuable to me, as I feel like I have grown immensely as a researcher during my time here, because of the number of professors, lecturers and other trainees that I have had the opportunity to learn from. CRS allows me to meet so many individuals from diverse backgrounds and with incredible scientific perspectives that are always fun to learn from!

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

The most valuable aspect was the foundational material that I learned from Dr. Monahan, during my first year in MS-RSM. Our classes set us up with an immense and detailed knowledge of the basics of reproductive science that I have been able to continue to build upon as I learn more each day.

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

I would say to trust in yourself, allow yourself to fail and know that every day is a learning curve!

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

I hope that the next big contribution to the field will be the continued development of options for fertility preservation for pediatric patients with testes. There is amazing work being done in Dr. Kyle Orwig’s lab and I hope that there are more advancements being made to offer these patients more concrete options for FP. 

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?

Outside of my research I enjoy spending time with my dogs (and four new foster kittens), as well as reading and watching terrible reality television.