A deeper understanding of how the uterus and brain communicate can enable improvements in reproductive health, pain regulation, and hormonal regulation. However, the causal investigation of uterine signaling remains limited by the lack of technologies capable of chronically interfacing with the uterus in vivo. We aim to address this limitation by developing a wireless optogenetic device that interfaces directly with the murine uterine wall to enable light-driven control of contraction timing and intensity. By providing causal, cell-specific control over uterine activity, this platform will enable systematic investigation of uterine dynamics in both acute and chronic experimental settings, opening the door to a deeper understanding of female reproductive physiology.

I am excited for the opportunity to contribute to women’s health research. Through my UROP in the Bioelectronics Group, I have gained hands-on experience designing and manufacturing implantable devices, and I hope to apply these skills to develop technologies that advance our understanding of the female reproductive system. My goal is to help drive greater interest and investment in women’s reproductive health so that it receives the same level of scientific attention and innovation as other organ systems.