Kelly Campen

External factor, such as chemicals found in plastics and drugs can influence the cell-to-cell communication that happens in the ovary, says Kelly.

“My research was focused on female fertility. I found that the communication pathways of the cells inside the ovaries are susceptible to external factors, which suggests they reduce the quality of the egg and may contribute to infertility.”

Successful career

After graduating, Kelly spent three years in the United States as a postdoctoral fellow, working at two different institutes – Middlebury College, in Vermont and the University of Tennessee. “I learnt new research techniques, mentored students, taught classes and attended conferences.”

“My experience at Victoria, and, particularly, the supervisors I worked with, were instrumental in being able to secure postdoctoral positions overseas.”

Kelly is now back in New Zealand and in a role at AuramerBio, a biotech company that arose out of research done at this University. AuramerBio develops sensing technologies and diagnostic tests using aptamers, an antibody alternative.

Great opportunities

Her advice for future students is to “consider the career that you want after you’ve finished your PhD and try to get experience that will help you get there. There are always opportunities to get experience teaching or mentoring that will give you a leg up when applying for jobs.”