For October’s student spotlight we are highlighting Kaylee Browder. Kaylee is an Integrative Biology PhD student. She is a part of the Newmark and Issigonis labs in the Morgridge Institute for Research. Kaylee provides insight on her research, her life in Madison, and much more.
1. Explain your research so that your grandparent or a 5-year old would understand it?
My research focuses on how sperm and egg development are regulated by localized signaling in planarian flatworms. This animal is particularly useful for reproductive research because once mature, a single animal will have a pair of ovaries along with hundreds of testes.
2. What inspired you to pursue that research?
I have always been fascinated by animals. There are so many different sizes and colors – how do those sizes and colors come about? How are all the cells in an animal’s body working together to make one organism when they all have different functions?
3. What are your hobbies or interests outside of school?
When I’m not in class or in the lab, I can be found running and biking around the lakes or through the Arboretum. I also enjoy attending hot yoga classes and feelgood trips to Target. If I’m not in one of those places, then I’m on the couch watching Criminal Minds or the Wire for the umpteenth time.
4. What are your favorite places/things to do in Madison?
Other than going to Target, I also enjoy going with friends to try different restaurants in the area and the newest cocktail creation at Madison’s on King Street. There’s usually always something worth going to at the Sylvee and the Sunday Farmer’s Market at Edgewood never disappoints.
5. What is a pleasant surprise you’ve encountered while being a graduate student here?
I had the opportunity to tour the Zoological Museum in Noland Hall with iBio and it was AMAZING! There are so many different things to see ranging from specimen preparation to scientific instruments. The Blaschka Glass Models are some of my favorites along with the articulated skeletons!
6. What is your dream job?
I’m already doing it – a scientist!
7. Anything else you want to share?
My favorite animals are planarians and sharks!