This week's spotlight is Madhur Wyatt, a Ph.D. candidate in the Health, Human Performance, and Recreation department!
What interested you to pursue a career in STEM?
My professional journey began in the field of business, where I spent many years in marketing. Childhood struggles with weight sparked a parallel interest in nutrition and exercise, leading me to study these subjects informally. This side pursuit soon revealed a deep-seated passion, inspiring me to earn a second master's degree, this time in Kinesiology. My academic curiosity didn't stop there; I was captivated by the gut microbiome's profound influence on health and decided to delve deeper through a Ph.D. program. Transitioning from business to the sciences was challenging, yet it was a decision that enriched my life. The scientific courses I took transformed my worldview, allowing me to see through a lens that merges the precision of science with the strategic thinking of business.
How would you describe your work to the public?
I'm exploring the impact of supplemental vitamin D on the gut microbiome in healthy individuals. This research is crucial as it may help us understand the relationship between vitamin D and the risk of developing colorectal cancer at an early age. With early-onset colorectal cancer rates rising alarmingly, it's vital to investigate how the microbiome might contribute to this trend. Given that many colorectal cancer patients have low levels of vitamin D, my study focuses on uncovering how vitamin D might influence this process.
Outside of the lab, what do you enjoy doing?
Outside of Lab I enjoy traveling, hiking, car camping, cooking, backpacking, and repelling down canyons.
Is there something during your research career that you have really enjoyed or want to share?
I find great pleasure in working on manuscripts. There's a unique joy in seeing a manuscript evolve and take shape, which is an experience I've come to cherish. This sentiment isn't commonly expressed among graduate students, but for me, it's a genuinely enjoyable part of the academic journey.
If you can give a piece of advice to the younger generation, what would it be?
Prioritize doing what you love while maintaining a balance with what needs to be done, emphasizing effective time management. Having a strong social support system and achieving a healthy work-life balance are crucial aspects that I consider most important.
Is there a female scientist that particularly inspires you?
I am proud to have Dr. Leigh Greathouse as my advisor. She has inspired me to pursue quality science with her attention to detail, a trait I have learned to value and emulate in my work.