Alumni Spotlight on Katya Macias, MS
The connections I made during my thesis training have helped me see the trajectory of my career and future goals.
Katya Macias, MS
MS-RSM Class of 2023
Katya Macias is an MS-RSM alumna, class of 2023. She completed the thesis track and conducted research with Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone. Katya is currently a Clinical Lab Scientist at Kindbody in Chicago.
Thesis Mentor: Mary Ellen Pavone, MD
Thesis Title: "Paternal Body Mass Index May Be Associated with Alterations in Embryo Morphokinetics During In Vitro Fertilization"
What is your connection to the CRS community and what is your current position?
I was a thesis-track student in the MS-RSM program under the mentorship of Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone. I am currently a Clinical Lab Scientist at a reproductive health clinic called Kindbody in Chicago.
Could you describe your current research/studies?
In my current position I perform the andrology and endocrinology for the Kindbody-Chicagoland clinics. On average the clinic receives about 600+ blood samples per week, and I am running over 2,000 analyte tests in addition to andrology procedures.
What aspect(s) of CRS did you find most valuable?
Within the MS-RSM program there is a foundational reproductive technologies laboratory course where we learned to perform embryo biopsy, ICSI, and other ART procedures that have immensely helped me transition into my profession after graduation.
What has been the most valuable aspect to your training as a reproductive scientist in CRS?
The connections I made during my thesis training have helped me see the trajectory of my career and future goals. I met andrologists, embryologists, lab managers, and HCLD certified lab directors that have opened many doors for me.
What would you recommend to junior scientists in order for them succeed in their scientific careers?
Take advantage of conferences! Presenting my thesis at the ASRM 2022 Congress was one of the most fulfilling experiences during my graduate program!
What do you think will be the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field?
Lately I have been highly interested in in-vitro gametogenesis. On an everyday basis we see patients become frustrated or unmotivated when their fertility numbers are low. This could provide yet another opportunity to produce gametes of their own.
Do you have any notable stories from your time in CRS?
Having the best study group for exams!! We would stay long hours in the CRS Suite to study, but it was the greatest feeling when we would all do well!