Current Title and Department: BA Candidate, Biology; Research Student

Current Employer: Case Western Reserve University; Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute

Undergraduate Degree, University: Biology, Case Western Reserve University

Mentors: Dr. Xiaojuan Li

Could you describe the path you’ve taken in meniscus research? How did it evolve?
Although my research does not directly concern the meniscus, I have always been fascinated with the knee and the various pathologies surrounding it. From a kid experimenting with different kinesiology tape patterns to protect my torn ACL, to taking part in a research project that investigates ML segmentation techniques and statistical shape modeling in place for conventional knee arthritis grading, my enthusiasm in the knee has continued to grow.

When you started in meniscus research, what was your biggest question? Do you think its answered?
A question I used to have is “why doesn’t the meniscus repair itself like any other tissues?” This question is easily answered – because the meniscus does not have adequate blood supply. Now, my question becomes, “what is the best way to replace/ reconstruct the meniscus?” If one day, the meniscus reconstruction techniques become as well researched and developed as that of the ACL, then the recovery time and sequelae of meniscus injuries can be greatly improved.

What collaboration was the most unexpected of your career? How did it impact your work today?
While I do not have an especially unexpected collaboration, I have got to say that being a part of my current lab has been an eye-opening experience. The biomedical engineering techniques have allowed me to look at the knee in a whole different perspective.

In your opinion, what is the current open question in the meniscus field right now?
I think that an open question in the meniscus field is to identify a treatment option with the optimal prognosis. Meniscectomy, repair, reconstruction, replacement, and even stem cell therapy each has their pros and cons. Therefore, the optimal option for each type of meniscus injury remains to be further investigated.

What advice would you give investigators who are just starting out in the field?
Connect with people of different backgrounds! You never know how you can be inspired by each new encounter.

When you’re not in the lab, what do you like to do for fun?
I love playing basketball in my free time. Although my surgeon mentor keeps warning me that I might injure my finger and be unable to become a surgeon, I just can’t quit. Ball is life!!

What is the most unusual/unexpected item sitting on your desk right now?
A tiny 3D printing of a femur and a tibia.