School of Molecular Biosciences Series: Repair – Regeneration – Reproduction
About the event
A Distinguished Lecture Series:
REPAIR – REGENERATION – REPRODUCTION
PRESENTER: Dr. Monika Ward, Yanagimachi Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii
TITLE: Y Chromosome – A Genetic Switch Box for Fertility
Dr. Monika A. Ward is a highly respected leader in reproductive and developmental biology, internationally recognized for her seminal contributions to understanding Y-chromosome function, spermatogenesis, and assisted reproductive technologies. Trained under the late Ryuzo Yanagimachi, she has played a central role in establishing foundational mouse models demonstrating the minimal Y-chromosome gene complement required for male fertility, with landmark publications in Science, Biology of Reproduction, and PNAS.
Her work has reshaped thinking about sex chromosome biology, sperm chromatin integrity, and the long-term consequences of assisted reproduction. Dr. Ward has sustained continuous NIH support as principal investigator, serves in prominent editorial and leadership roles within the Society for the Study of Reproduction and Biology of Reproduction, and currently directs the Yanagimachi Institute for Biogenesis Research. Collectively, her scholarship, leadership, and mentorship place her among the most influential scientists in modern reproductive biology.
April 2
Dr. Lisa Vrooman, Oregon National Primate Research Center
“Modeling the Effects of ART Procedures Using Mouse and Non-Human Primate Models”
April 9
Dr. Gertrude Ecklu-Mensah, University of California
“One Size Fits None: From Diet-Microbiome Interactions to Individualized Dietary Recommendations”
April 23
Dr. Heinikoff Steven, Professor Basic Sciences Division, Fred Hutch Cancer Center
“Histone Overexpression in Cancer”
The School of Molecular Biosciences (SMB) prepares students for careers in science, health, and medicine.
Offering undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral training in biochemistry, genetics and cell biology, and microbiology.