Northwestern Kim Lab

Faculty Profile Ji-Yong Julie Kim, PhD, is the Susy Y. Hung Research Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine. Her laboratory aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms associated with the development and growth of endometrial cancer, endometriosis and fibroids to i...

On January 3, 2025, Dr. Teresa Woodruff, former Director of Northwestern Center for Reproductive Science and Northwestern faculty, received the National Medal of Science honor at the White House for her innovative oncofertility work. Established in 1959 by the U.S. Congress, the National Medal of Science is the highest recognition the nation can bestow on scientists and engineers. Dr. Woodruff pioneered the field of oncofertility in 2006 which is now a recognized medical discipline. This is a major honor for Dr. Woodruff and the CRS community is so proud of all her amazing accomplishments.

Current CRS Co-Directors, Dr. Julie Kim (Northwestern Kim Lab), and Dr. Francesca Duncan, a former trainee of Dr. Woodruff’s, praised Dr. Woodruff’s achievements. Dr. Kim said “[Dr. Woodruff] has left an indelible mark on the field of reproductive science through her leadership at Northwestern University's Center for Reproductive Science. Dr. Woodruff's scientific achievements include globally recognized breakthroughs in molecular science, reproductive health, and cancer research, as well as her innovative "zinc spark" discovery. Beyond her scientific contributions, Dr. Woodruff has been an extraordinary leader, mentor, and colleague, whose guidance and collaboration have profoundly influenced the lives and careers of those around her. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and inclusivity continues to shape the future of science and inspire generations at Northwestern’s Center for Reproductive Science.”

Dr. Duncan echoed similar praise and remarked “It is a major accomplishment in one's scientific career to have an impact on a field and those individuals it serves. Teresa has not only done this once, but she has done it repeatedly - from her work in the endocrinology of inhibin to her coalescing the field of oncofertility to the discovery of the role of zinc in reproductive biology and engineering the female reproductive tract-on-a-chip. Teresa has translated her work from bench-to-bedside all the while training and inspiring the next generation of leaders in the field. Our scientific future in reproductive science and medicine is bright because of Teresa, and all of us at the Center for Reproductive Science are incredibly proud of her and this well-deserved honor and recognition.”

Dr. Kelly Mayo, current Dean of The Graduate School at Northwestern University, and former CRS Director, said “Teresa’s superpower is the ability to bring diverse ideas, approaches, and people together to form collaborative and synergistic teams able to approach the most challenging and important problems. This is at the heart of what she did with the establishment of the field of oncofertility. Not only within her lab group, but across CRS, the country, and indeed, the world. What a wonderful and well-deserved honor this is for Teresa!” Dr. Woodruff was also a graduate student in Dr. Mayo’s lab when she began her studies at Northwestern illustrating how tight-knit and supportive the CRS community is of all its trainees.

Lastly, Dr. Erwin Goldberg, faculty emeritus at Northwestern and active member of the CRS community concluded “It is recognition that she truly deserves. I've known Teresa since her graduate days at Northwestern. She's a scientist for the ages.”

To read more about Dr. Woodruff and the Oncofertility Consortium, visit https://oncofertility.msu.edu/

This is an exciting time when advancements in technology are being used for women's health research. The investments of NIH, ORWH, scientists and advocates are paramount and we are seeing some results already. Thank you for featuring some of our research!

ORWH: In the Spotlight New Issue of In Focus Explores Technology and Innovation in Women's Health Research

Our study is now published. A special shout out to first author Dr. Grace Foley.

Racial Differences in Aggressive Uterine Cancer Linked to Genes and Immune Response Significant racial disparities exist between Black and White patients with uterine cancer, with higher death rates in Black women. This study explores the differences in an aggressive type of uterine cancer called uterine serous carcinoma between Black and White patients. The research highlights how...

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38597153/

How does one study the effects of obesity on the uterus in the lab? This study reveals how high adiposity can impact the endometrium in a cell specific manner. https://academic.oup.com/jcem/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1210/clinem/dgae236/7643127?utm_source=advanceaccess&utm_campaign=jcem&utm_medium=email

How does one study the effects of obesity on the uterus in the lab? This study reveals how high adiposity can impact the endometrium in a cell specific manner. https://academic.oup.com/jcem/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1210/clinem/dgae236/7643127?utm_source=advanceaccess&utm_campaign=jcem&utm_medium=email

Here's to focusing on Women's Health!!

I signed an executive order directing the most comprehensive set of executive actions ever taken to improve women's health.

I’m going to ensure that women’s health is integrated and prioritized across the entire federal government.

What an honor to mentor these bright, talented and dedicated trainees. I also love this picture.

Farewell lunch for Asia Ingram, Mary Towner and Katy Trotter. We will miss you but excited for your next endeavors.

Our Masters program in Reproductive Science is open for applicants! If you have any questions, there is a virtual info session this Friday.

🚨 Our FINAL information session of the year is this Friday, March 15th! Sign up to meet with program leadership and ask current students your questions.

Sign up today: https://northwesterncrs.wufoo.com/forms/q70esn717i47jo/

Worldwide 1 in 10 women are affected by this chronic health issue where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus. This month raises awareness and visibility to endometriosis education and the importance of supportive healthcare!

https://endometriosisassn.org/endometriosis-awareness-month-2021/

Happy International National Women's Day!

CRS celebrates all the intelligent and strong women who contribute to our amazing community!