Alumni Spotlight on Julia Sprenger, MS

Julia Sprenger is graduate of the MS-RSM program, class of 2024. She completed the non-thesis track and conducted research with Dr. Lindsey Block. Julia is currently a science writer and assistant editor working with Dr. Lauren Streicher.

Mentor: Lindsey Block, PhD  

Project Title: "Are Mushrooms Safe for the Mush-Womb? The Impact of Triterpenoids on Placental Cell Lines" 

What is your connection to the CRS community and what is your current position? 

I am a 2024 non-thesis graduate of the Master of Science in Reproductive Science and Medicine Program (MS-RSM) at Northwestern. Through the MS-RSM program, I uncovered a passion for science writing and communication to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and public understanding. My goal is to make scientific information accessible to a wide audience by crafting clear, engaging, and informative content. Through my dedication to accuracy and clarity, I aim to contribute to disseminating knowledge and empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding their reproductive health. This mindset led me to a position with Dr. Lauren Streicher, MD, as a science writer and assistant editor. I connected with Dr. Streicher after lectured for my Reproductive Health and Disease class in the spring.  

Could you describe your current research/studies? 

Together, Dr. Streicher and I are currently on writing two research papers exploring the perceived efficacy of cannabis use on alleviating menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, poor sleep, difficulty achieving orgasm, and vaginal dryness/painful sex.  

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

The most valuable aspect of the CRS program was the comprehensive education and hands-on experience it provided in reproductive science, a field I am deeply passionate about. Before joining the MS-RSM program, I lacked formal training in this area, but the curriculum, combined with guidance from the CRS faculty, allowed me to build a strong foundation in reproductive physiology and endocrinology. The opportunity to work in a lab also gave me practical research experience, enhancing my skills in experimental design and data analysis. The program’s collaborative environment encouraged the exchange of ideas with peers from diverse backgrounds, broadening my perspective. Additionally, the numerous professional development opportunities, such as lectures and networking events, were instrumental in shaping my career path. Working with Dr. Stacey Tobin in our Science Communication in Reproductive Science and Medicine class led me to the field of science writing and communication! 

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

The most valuable aspect of my training in the Center for Reproductive Science (CRS) was the opportunity to engage deeply with the biological aspects of reproductive biology. Working alongside experts in the field allowed me to develop critical thinking skills and foster a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and answering complex questions within reproductive science.

What would you recommend to junior scientists in order for them succeed in their scientific careers?​  

I would recommend that junior scientists stay curious and open-minded about their future careers while building a foundation within the field of their choice. Additionally, perseverance and resilience are key; scientific careers often involve setbacks, and learning from these experiences is crucial for growth.  

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

While the ongoing research in reproductive biology is incredibly important, I believe the next big contribution should be in the area of scientific communication. If academics can communicate their research more effectively with the public, it will create a space where individuals can make informed decisions about their reproductive health. Providing the public with clear and accurate information empowers them to make better decisions regarding their health and well-being. If the public is provided with good information, they will make good decisions.  

Do you have any notable stories from your time in CRS? 

During the winter and spring quarters, I conducted research with my mentor, Dr. Lindsey Block, and my peer Jessa Snower. During our time in the lab, we faced a lot of setbacks. One of these setbacks included isolating and plating primary trophoblast cells from the placenta of pregnant mice (e13.5). After the 6-hour procedure, we returned the next day to find that many if not all the isolated primary trophoblast cells died. Despite feeling frustrated at the “time wasted,” we all ended up laughing it off and saying, “that’s research,” and created a plan to improve the procedure. There were many days in lab where things did not go according to plan, but at the end of the day, I always learned something I hadn’t known previously and felt accomplished, nonetheless.