CRS Scientist Spotlight on Bria King

Bria King is a 2nd year MS-RSM student. She is conducting her thesis research on how BRCA mutations influence the outcomes of ovarian stimulation and embryo development in the lab of Mary Ellen Pavone, MD.

Thesis Mentor: Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone

Thesis Title: “Do BRCA Mutations Effect Embryo Morphokinetics and Ovarian Stimulation”

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

I was introduced to the CRS community through the Graduate School as a master’s student in Reproductive Science and Medicine. I am currently a second-year master’s student working on my thesis project with Dr. Mary-Ellen Pavone.

Could you describe your research?

My research aims to assess if BRCA mutations influence the outcomes of ovarian stimulation and embryo development by observing the morphological development and morphokinetic properties of embryos retrieved from IVF/PGT-M cycles using timelapse imaging (TLI).

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

I am very appreciative of the CRS community and the extensive network of knowledgeable individuals I have interacted with who are passionate about reproductive science as well. There are many individuals in other career fields outside of science and medicine that are involved in CRS as well as reproductive science research, so it is just interesting to see how immense the field is and other fields of interest it can intersect.

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

Data Analysis, I mean it. Interpreting data and translating the findings are important in understanding scientific information, and help push the question, “Why?” forward and potentially answer it. Furthermore, it has allowed me to enhance and learn more on the importance of collecting correct and accurate data so it can be utilized to answer and address scientific findings.

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

One piece of advice I would give young scientists is to be open to new opportunities and chances. There are a vast number of fields that intersect with reproductive sciences, so be welcoming of new topics and studies, because you never know if your interest in something will grow or diverge elsewhere.

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

I think the next big contribution in the reproductive biology field will be contraceptive options for men, specifically oral contraceptives. While there is vast research being done on birth control and its effect in women, it is interesting to see the research being conducted and initiated looking at other options that can be developed and provided to men as a contraceptive option.

What hobbies do you have outside of the lab?

Outside of research, I really enjoy collecting and listening to records and hanging out with my friends. I also enjoy just discovering Chicago and going to different restaurants, thrift and vinyl shops with my friends.