McKey Lab

Hi! The McKey Lab is transitioning to BlueSky! Find us @mckey-lab.bsky.social 🥼

To my science framily, As we reflect on this election season, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that things may not have gone as we had hoped or expected. I wish I was shocked that America did not elect its first woman and woman of color to the presidency but I am angry and disappointed. I know times like these can stir a mix of emotions and concerns. I, too, share fears for the future of science, federal support for the marginalized and elderly, and the rights of my family and loved ones. In moments like this, I am especially grateful for each of you. Your diverse values, perspectives, and individual journeys add incredible strength to our community. Our communities are spaces where everyone’s unique contributions and insights are respected and valued, and I am deeply appreciative of the care, dedication, and vision each of you brings. I see you, I hear you, and I grieve alongside you. Take a beat to rest and recover and then let’s continue to support one another, stay focused on the meaningful work we’re doing, and foster an environment where everyone feels empowered to thrive. Thank you for being who you are. Joy comes in the morning, as it always will. With gratitude, Donita

Spotted: McKey Lab members at the National @LudemanCenter Women's Health Research Conference!

Congratulations to our first grad student on passing her comprehensive exam! She knocked it out of the park. WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU LILY!!

Lastly, meet Jenn, the McKey lab postdoc! Jenn received her PhD in neuroscience from @UMich , where she studied the properties of GnRH neurons & how they are altered in a mouse model of PCOS🧠. When she's not working, she's hiking☀️, reading📚 or watching sports⚽️🏈🏀 @jaime_jenn

Meet the newest McKey lab member, Courtney (and her pup Hazel)! Since receiving her BS in Chem, Courtney has worked in contract pharma for 7 yrs and is getting her MLA in Biotech through Harvard Extension School. Outside of the lab and school, she enjoys reading & rock climbing!

The McKey and Roberson labs sure know how to scope out the repro people! Lots of fun was had at the #CUAnschutzBlockParty @CUAnschutz 🌞🧪🔬

Finally meet @jen_mckey -our fearless leader! Jen grew up loving photography & was captivated by the visual nature of developmental & reproductive biology. In her free time, she likes to paint, take pictures, or engage in other crafty activities. S'lucky to have her!

September is PCOS Awareness Month Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects 10% of women worldwide, yet it remains often misunderstood or overlooked. Join us in advocating for better understanding and care. #PCOSAwareness #PCOSAwarenessMonth2024

Another McKey Lab member intro! Meet Lily, a grad student in the Cell Bio, Stem Cells & Development program. Lily is studying the role of the rete ovarii in the development of the ovary. Lily is also an active member of the community! Stay tuned for more on Lily's achievements!🤩

A rising superstar scientist from the Roberson Lab! Check out LeCaine's work on uterine remodeling! @CUAnschutz

Meet Anthony, the McKey Lab, Lab Manager! Anthony graduated from CSU & brings an abundance of technical experience & genuine curiosity! In addition to keeping the lab running, Anthony is working on a number of cool projects (stay tuned). He's SUCH a joy to have on the team!⭐️🔬🧪

Meet Jaelyn, a summer intern in the McKey Lab. She grew up in CO & is currently an undergrad @ Emory. This summer she learned essential lab techniques, including manual oocytes counts & worked on imaging the ovary & rete ovarii. Check out her H&E staining! WE WILL MISS YOU!