Shravya Pant
AYURG
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
My research at the Laronda Lab investigates the effects of acute chemotherapy on ovarian vasculature and primordial follicle (immature eggs) activation in pre-pubertal and adolescent patients. The goal of my project is to help optimize fertility preservation methods for young female cancer patients, as chemotherapy treatments can cause lifelong consequences on fertility.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
I have always been passionate about issues of sexual and reproductive health, particularly when it comes to fertility and bodily autonomy. Being able to combine these interests with science has driven my interest in pursuing this project and being part of a reproductive lab in general.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
Combining my interdisciplinary interests in journalism and medicine, I’m passionate about utilizing research and investigative skills both as a reporter and scientist to better communicate medical news to the public. I feel that research combines the best of both worlds. Through honing my scientific research and communication skills, the knowledge I’ve gained through working in a lab will make me a better reporter and physician.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
I think research requires a lot more teamwork than one may think at first. Working in a lab environment as an undergrad can be daunting at first, but I think making connections and valuing mentorship from graduate and masters students, as well as the PI, is really valuable.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
If you see a lab or group that interests you, reach out to them. I was initially intimidated to reach out to the PI of the lab that I currently work in because I wasn’t sure if they would want to take an undergrad. However, I met with one of the graduate students over the summer who took me on a lab tour and is now my project mentor!
What is something that you could give a 10 min presentation on right off the cuff?
Anything related to professional tennis