Describe your research in a few words:ÌýI study the fallopian tube and its connection to ovarian cancer. Although commonly called ovarian cancer, some of these cancers actually originate from a region of the fallopian tube located directly adjacent to the ovary. Using the mouse as a model, I discovered that cells from this region are different from cells in the rest of the tube. Could this mean that these cells are susceptible to cancer-causing mutations? What makes certain cells more prone to cancer? These are some of the questions that I am trying to answer.
What impact will your research have?ÌýSurprisingly little is known about the fallopian tube, despite this tube containing the cell-of-origin of some ovarian cancers and providing an optimal environment for fertilization and gamete/embryo movement. I hope to advance our understanding of the female reproductive tract and its association with disorders and diseases such as cancer, so that better treatments can be developed.
What do you enjoy most about being a GCI trainee?ÌýWhat I like most about working at the GCI is that I have access to world-class researchers, all of whom are open and enthusiastic to respond to questions that I may have and provide technical support. Sometimes I just go by a professor's office and ask if they're free to talk, they're always happy to discuss!
Besides your research, how are you involved in community initiatives?ÌýAlongside my research, I work with the McGill chapter of a national charitable organization called Let's Talk Science. I have been a volunteer with Let’s Talk Science at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ for over 6 years and a Site Coordinator for the past 3 years. One of the things I enjoy most is researching and creating inexpensive, age-appropriate STEAM outreach activities using everyday objects and materials. It's always an amazing feeling when our audiences enjoy what we create!
Read more about this in a full interview with Keerthana, in which she discussesÌýher favourite activity to deliver with Let’s Talk Science, what got her hooked on science communication, and how her experience in science outreach has helped her in academia.Ìý
Read more about Keerthana’s involvement with Let’s Talk Science