Consultant Spotlight - November 2024

How long have you been with miLEAD? 

I joined miLEAD in the Summer of 2021, so just over 3 years!

What is the focus of your research?

I study TDP43, an RNA binding protein with critical ties to two neurodegenerative diseases: ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) and frontotemporal dementia. Specifically, I'm interested in understanding how shortened variants of TDP43 are regulated, and how they might contribute to neurodegeneration in disease.

What are your current career goals?

I'm interested in pursuing a medical science liaison position post-graduation. My favorite parts of graduate school involve presenting data, networking with other scientists, and having conversations about the clinical outcomes of our work on the bench. Being an MSL would allow me to enhance my science communication skills and work closer with physicians to have a broader impact on patients lives.

What roles have you played on projects? 

I have been a consultant on projects involving neurodegenerative disease drug development, as well as the automotive industry. I was also a project manager on a project focused on developing curriculum to navigate mental health topics in elementary schools. I was just promoted to an advisor and board member as the Director of Membership, and I'm excited for my first role as an advisor!

What led you to seek out miLEAD?

At the time that I applied to miLEAD, I was interested in industry careers, but had very limited awareness of the possibilities beyond academia. miLEAD offered an opportunity not only to gain direct industry experience, but to network with other students with similar goals, hold leadership positions, and develop professionally. Joining miLEAD has helped inform me of multiple career options, both solidifying my desire to pursue an MSL role and equipping me with the necessary skills to do so.

Since joining miLEAD, what skills have you been able to develop?

miLEAD has given me extensive experience collaborating with diverse teams and adapting to different roles. Each project I've been on has introduced me to teammates with unique perspectives, whether shaped by their graduate work or personal background, which has been invaluable for fostering creativity and innovation. I’ve come to really appreciate the value of diverse thought, as it has broadened my own approach to problem-solving and strengthened my ability to connect and work effectively with a wide range of people.

What has been one of your most rewarding experiences thus far working with miLEAD? 

The most rewarding experience I've had with miLEAD is when I served as a project manager on a miLEAD Community project. Our mission was to help develop elementary school curriculum for students navigating classroom anxiety. This project felt especially impactful because it addressed a pressing need among young learners who may struggle to engage in school due to mental health issues. Knowing that our work could foster a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment made this experience truly meaningful for me.